- Evonik is investing in the upper double-digit million euro range to expand fumed silica capacities in Antwerp.
- The production complex is scheduled to become operational in the summer of 2019.
- Applications include coatings, paints, adhesives, transparent silicones, and high-performance insulation materials.
- The expansion will enable production of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic silica.
Investment and Expansion
Evonik is investing an upper double-digit million euro amount to expand its fumed silica capacities in Antwerp, Belgium. The new production complex is expected to be operational by the summer of 2019. This expansion is part of Evonik's strategy to focus on specialty chemicals and create a balanced portfolio.
Applications and Market Growth
The specialty silica, marketed under the name AEROSIL®, is used in coatings, paints, modern adhesive systems, transparent silicones, and non-flammable high-performance insulation materials. The global market for fumed silica is growing at rates exceeding 4 percent, driven by applications in specialty silicones, adhesives for wind turbines, and high-performance insulation.
Strategic Importance
Silica is part of Evonik’s “Smart Materials” growth engine, which has above-average market growth and margin potential. The expansion in Antwerp supports market growth in Europe and other key export markets, while also enhancing Evonik's integrated European silica-silane production.
Production Capabilities
With the new AEROSIL® expansion, Evonik will be able to supply both hydrophilic and hydrophobic silica from Antwerp. Additionally, the modernization of silane capacity will secure raw material supply for AEROSIL® production and silanes used in tire manufacturing. AEROSIL® is produced through the high-temperature hydrolysis of silanes in a hydrogen flame.
