The wave of price increases that is affecting our sector continues in this 2022. After the overload that affected plastic resins and many other raw materials, in the last month the value of carbon black has undergone a significant increase of 30%.
Carbon black is a pigment produced by the incomplete combustion of petroleum products (coal tar, tar obtained from ethylene cracking, or from vegetable fats and oils). 70% of this is used for strengthening rubber or plastic products, especially in the automotive sector where it is highly appreciated for its color rendering and color.
The attack by Russia on Ukraine is unfortunately having consequences on the price of carbon black itself, as more than a third comes from the first mentioned nation. Indeed, Russian deliveries are shrinking and European capacities are not sufficient to cover demand.
In addition to the problems deriving from the difficult supply, the continuous increases in energy are aggravating the situation, even for those who have sought, or are looking for, an alternative solution to combat the rapid increases in costs. This surcharge is therefore further linked to both the trend in oil (oil surcharge) and the supplement relating to the price of gas (natural gas charge).
Our Company, always far-sighted thanks to the ability to foresee this new and unpleasant situation, promptly intervened with a strategic procurement when the sudden climb had not yet begun. Despite the ever-increasing demand from Customers, we try to satisfy every request and limit the effects of these increases as much as possible, aware of the difficulties that will nevertheless have to be faced.
Temakrom is there and is present, able to predict market changes to support each Customer in all situations.