Akzo Nobel expands colloidal silica capacity in Sweden

The expansion will help meet growing demand and will strengthen the company's market leadership position.

Versatile product

A product of two natural ingredients – sand and water – colloidal silica is a versatile product which enhances key functionalities of other products and manufacturing processes. With production facilities in Asia (Taiwan and China), Europe (Germany and Sweden) and the Americas (Brazil and US), Akzo Nobel is a leading global producer of colloidal silica products. The business' main markets include electronics, coatings, construction and catalysts, as well as batteries.

Completed by late 2018

The expansion, at the Bohus facility close to Gothenburg, is expected to be completed by late 2018. It is the latest initiative aimed to fuel further growth of AkzoNobel's colloidal silica business. Last year the business commissioned a new lab and implemented an innovative process step that boosted production capacity of Levasil products.

Switching to waterborne coatings

“Within our 'Levasil Colloidal Silica' brand, we are experiencing growing demand in various markets, such as coatings, where it supports the industry in its switch from solventborne coatings to waterborne alternatives,” said Ann Lindgärde, Director of Levasil Colloidal Silica at AkzoNobel. “We also anticipate future growth as we continue to research and develop new applications for a range of industries.”