Chemical prices take a hike

Article Abstract:

Chemical process industries have reacted to the increase in oil prices by passing along the increases in hydrocarbon-based feedstocks to their clients. Solutia Inc, for example, has increased the price of its nylon 6,6 plastics as well as other polymer products by as much as 10%. Similar price increases have been made for such chemicals as unsaturated polyester resin, vinyl acetate, ethylene glycol, aldehydes and oxo alcohols.

Commodity & service prices

Amoco faces suit over 'cancer cluster.'

Article Abstract:

Amoco Chemical Co. of Cook County, IL, is facing a lawsuit which accuses the firm of allowing employees at its research center in Naperville, IL, to be exposed to unsafe, defective and hazardous chemicals. The suit was initiated by four ex-employees and survivors of three other previous employees. Researchers from the University of Alabama and Johns Hopkins University, who were commissioned by Amoco to study medical histories of all 8,000 workers at the research center, revealed that 19 current or previous employees have been diagnosed with intracranial tumors. The seven plaintiffs have suffered from glioma, a rare type of brain cancer.

Comment:

Faces lawsuit accusing co of allowing employees at Naperville, IL, research center to be exposed to unsafe, defective chemicals

Legal issues & crime, Personnel administration, BP Amoco Chemicals

GE and EPA agree to PCB cleanup

Article Abstract:

General Electric Corp. (GE) of Fairfield, CT, will begin cleaning up polychlorinated biphenyls or PCB-contaminated areas including a 250-acre site in Pittsfield, MA, and a two-mile stretch of the Housatonic River nearby. The site is part of a designated area agreed upon by GE, the US Environmental Protection Agency or EPA and the Justice Department in Washington DC. The deal requires that GE provide brownfield-redevelopment aid as well as other expenses to Pittsfield for ten years. According to EPA, PCB exposure affects people directly in Pittsfield while PCB contamination through fish consumption affects the Hudson area.

Comment:

Will begin cleaning up polychlorinated biphenyls or PCB-contaminated areas in Pittsfield, MA

Electrical & Electronic Equip, Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing, Pollutants produced & recycled, General Electric Co.