Evonik, a silica manufacturer, is expanding its precipitated silica production facility in Charleston, USA, to cater to the surging demand, particularly from the tire industry. The investment aims to enhance local supply chains and bolster sustainability efforts.
Silica, a crucial component for fuel-efficient tires and products like toothpaste and coatings, drives Evonik’s strategic expansion. The company’s investment of a mid-double-digit million Euro amount underscores its commitment to meeting market demands and strengthening resilience in North America. Construction for the new production line is slated to commence in mid-2024, with operations set to commence by early 2026.
Maike Schuh, Evonik’s Chief Financial Officer for the Americas region, highlighted North America’s strategic importance and emphasised the company’s dedication to customer-centric solutions and sustainability. The expansion in Charleston will boost precipitated silica production capacity by 50 percent, positioning the site as a key hub for sustainable silica products.
Lauren Kjeldsen, Head of the Smart Materials Division, underscores the significance of the expansion in Charleston, emphasizing Evonik’s commitment to carbon neutrality and sustainable practices. Emmanuel Auer, Head of the Silica Business Line, emphasizes the expansion’s alignment with Evonik’s sustainability targets and its contribution to the Science Based Targets initiative.
The expansion addresses the growing demand for locally sourced silica products, particularly for fuel-efficient tires. Evonik also plans to introduce circular raw materials for ULTRASIL® Silica production, catering to the tire industry’s sustainability objectives.
Silica plays a pivotal role in enhancing tire efficiency, with North America witnessing heightened demand for fuel-efficient tires. Evonik’s investment reflects its dedication to modernizing silica production globally and its commitment to sustainability.
The expansion in Charleston adds to Evonik’s network of 18 precipitated silica production sites worldwide. With brands like ULTRASIL®, ZEODENT®, SIPERNAT®, and AEROSIL®, Evonik remains a leading provider of silica products across diverse industries.
