WACKER Expands Silicone Sealant Production in Nünchritz

Expansion Overview

In response to growing demand, WACKER is expanding its production and cartridge filling capacities for silicone sealants at its Nünchritz site. The project, with a budget of €20 million, aims to increase the company's supply capabilities. Construction is expected to start by the end of this year, pending regulatory approval, with production slated to begin in fall 2024. The expansion will also create new jobs at the site.

Demand for Construction Silicones

Silicone sealants are in high demand for their ability to provide fast, reliable, long-term sealing of doors, windows, kitchens, bathrooms, and walls. They help protect building components from water, dust, and moisture ingress, and are essential for energy efficiency, minimizing heat loss in buildings.

Alkoxy Silicones

Alkoxy silicones, which release alcohol upon crosslinking, are particularly dynamic in development. These one-component neutral-cure silicone sealing compounds are safe to use and can be applied on sensitive construction materials like natural stone or metal. They are versatile for both interior and exterior applications, with significant growth anticipated in the coming years.

Project Details

The Nünchritz site will see the construction of a fully continuous compounding plant for silicone sealing products, including an expansion of the cartridge filling facility. The new production lines will be integrated into existing plants, utilizing on-site filling capacities and logistics. The new filling line will be capable of filling up to an additional 30 million cartridges annually, depending on the grade.

Silicone Sealants

Room-temperature-curing silicone sealants are used for a variety of sealing, bonding, and coating applications. They consist of polydimethylsiloxane, a curing agent, fillers, and additives. Upon application, crosslinking starts, releasing small quantities of byproducts like alcohol in the case of neutral cure compounds.