Another setback for Flexsys as ITC rescinds order against Sinorgchem

Washington DC -- The US International Trade Commission has rescinded the limited exclusion order barring the US sale of rubber antidegradants made by Chinese firm Sinorgchem Co. Shandong and sold by Sovereign Chemical Co.

Flexsys America LP filed a petition against the companies in early 2005, accusing them of infringing on Flexsys' patents for antidegradant 6PPD and its feedstock, 4-ADPA.

The ITC found in Flexsys' favour in July 2006, ordering a ban on the sale of Sinorgchem's 6PPD and 4-ADPA.

A federal appeals court, however, reversed and remanded that order last December and denied Flexsys' petition for a rehearing before the full court in April.

Sinorgchem, Flexsys and Flexsys parent firm Solutia Inc. had no immediate comment on the new ITC order.

Flexsys continues to pursue the original patent infringement claim, as well as filing a more sweeping complaint May 12.

From Rubber & Plastics News (A Crain publication)