Americhem is preparing to open its new Central Research & Development (R&D) facility. The state-of-the-art facility is scheduled to open in early 2008, and is equipped to offer everything needed to advance polymer product development. Located at Americhem's Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, corporate headquarters, the R&D facility houses full analytical, weathering and end-use testing laboratories, process simulation equipment and advanced masterbatch processing. It also features a Customer Concept Center where visitors can meet with the company's experts to make their product vision a reality. "A part of the commitment we've made to the markets we serve involves continually working to create new solutions that take product innovation to the next level," says Cathy Hanlin, director of R&D for Americhem. "The R & D center offers our scientists a place to innovate new solutions and all the tools our clients need to streamline product development. Because Americhem serves clients in a wide array of market segments, it was important to invest in technology that would serve multiple needs.” For clients, product innovation starts at the Customer Concept Center. It not only features samples to inspire, but clients can work directly with Americhem's scientists to design products while they visit to develop new concepts. "Our scientists have all the critical tools they need at Central R&D — even the ability to virtually design products. Partnership with Americhem gives our clients access to the years of technical expertise and innovation we bring to the markets we serve," says Rick Juve, president and CEO of Americhem. "This experience enables our clients to create next-generation products and, in some cases, leads to the invention of an entirely new product category." The facility's weathering, analytical and physical properties testing laboratories enable clients to evaluate the composition and performance of products, while also providing the data needed to meet global quality standards. "The work done at our laboratories provides our clients with the data needed to examine and refine their products," says Hanlin. "We work hard to assist our clients as they look for ways to improve and deliver the advanced products consumers seek." The offerings at the R&D facility come full-circle at the Concentrate Preparation and Customer Simulation areas. "The simulation area of the R&D facility is filled with an array of equipment to mirror our clients' processes, including injection molding, blow molding, coextrusion, fiber spinning and more," says Hanlin. "This allows our clients to get a firsthand look at a prototype of their new product concept. To further assist our clients, we offer field support to ensure solutions work properly on their equipment." For more information, visit www.americhem.com. | 
