Arkema on Tuesday announce that its Beaumont, Texas, manufacturing site has resumed full operation following repairs and equipment testing in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, which struck on September 13.

"The quick response of our local management staff and operations employees in conjunction with broad support from Arkema resources across the U.S. hastened our restart," said Scott Schwartz, Arkema's General Manager for Thiochemicals in North America. "Our Beaumont employees showed tremendous resilience, perseverance and dedication as they worked to restore operations effectively and safely," he added.

The Beaumont plant produces methyl mercaptan, ethyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide (DMS). In addition, an acrolein/methylmercaptoproprionaldehyde (MMP) unit started operation in 2005.

Beaumont's products are key ingredients in the manufacture of biodegradable herbicides, pesticides and animal feed supplements. These products are also used in the production of pharmaceuticals, photographic chemicals and circuit boards. Ethyl mercaptan is primarily used as an odorizer for propane gas. The strong odor that ethyl mercaptan adds to propane makes gas leaks easy to detect, protecting homes and businesses. MMP is used in the production of methionine, an essential amino acid and a key component of poultry, swine and ruminant (cattle, sheep, etc.) feed.

A global chemical company and France's leading chemicals producer, Arkema consists of three strategically related businesses: Vinyl Products, Industrial Chemicals, and Performance Products. Arkema reported sales of 5.7 billion euros in 2007. Arkema has 15,200 employees in over 40 countries and six research centers located in France, the United States and Japan. With internationally recognized brands, Arkema holds leadership positions in its principal markets.