Italian compounder API is planning to expand its production capacity with a series of investments at its facility in Mussolente.

Over the course of three years, it will add new compounding lines and upgrade operational systems.

API said it will add a new production line for thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), bringing the total number of lines to five and increasing production capacity by 25%.

It will also install two new lines to produce thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) and its Apinat TPEs which are industrially compostable. This will increase production capacity of these product lines by 15%.

Another new line will enable API to produce micro-granulated TPUs and TPEs.

The company will also invest in new systems for industrial scale-up and automated packaging and palleting.

API is planning a complete overhaul of its sample and masterbatch production departments so as to create lean processes and optimise production efficiency.

It said that construction of its new R&D labs and related office space for technical staff is nearing completion. This project will increase overall R&D space by about 80%.