Evonik expands fumed silica capacities in Belgium

The production complex is scheduled to become operational in the summer of 2019. Typical applications of these specialty silica, which Evonik markets under the name “Aerosil”, include coatings and paints, modern adhesive systems, transparent silicones as well as non-flammable high-performance insulation materials.

Concentration on specialty chemicals

The global market for fumed silica shows growth rates exceeding 4 percent, which outpaces the global economy as a whole. The market for applications in specialty silicones, adhesives for wind turbines and in the area of non-flammable high-performance insulation is posting above-average development. “The investment is a good fit for our strategy to concentrate more on distinct specialty chemicals businesses and to gradually create a more balanced portfolio,” says Christian Kullmann, Chairman of the Evonik Executive Board.

Above-average market growth

Silica are part of “Smart Materials”, one of Evonik’s four strategic growth engines with above-average market growth and margin potential. “With this investment in the silica business, which has low cyclicality, we are consistently following our growth course and solidifying our position as a leading global provider. Following the planned takeover of the Huber silica business and the continuous expansion of precipitated silica capacity, the expansion in Antwerp is the next logical step,” Kullmann notes.

Central location in Europe

“By expanding our capacities in Antwerp, we want to support the market growth for fumed silica in Europe and other important export markets, while at the same time boosting our integrated European silica-silane production,” explains Johannes Ohmer, member of the Board of Management of Evonik Resource Efficiency GmbH. Thanks to its central location in Europe and modern harbour, Antwerp offers ideal framework conditions.