Evonik to Invest in Hydrophobic Fumed Silica Capabilities

Specialty chemicals firm Evonik announced plans Friday to increase its fumed silica refinement capabilities at its Rheinfelden, Germany plant. The company said its “low double-digit million euro” investment will expand its ability to process hydrophilic silica into a hydrophobic form when the new capabilities become operational in 2020. 

“Our expansion in Rheinfelden is aimed at supporting the growth of the existing application areas in highly specialized fields and at opening up new, innovative uses,” Johannes Ohmer, member of Evonik Resource Efficiency GmbH’s Board of Management, said in a press release heralding the investment.

The company sells its hydrophobic fumed silica under the AEROSIL brand, which is used in applications like rheology control, in coating systems as an anti-settling agent, and adhesives and sealants. 

“Rheinfelden is the parent plant for our hydrophobic fumed silica. We decided in favor of expanding the site because the investment will help us make even better use of existing facilities,” said Andreas Fischer, head of Evonik’s silica business line, in a statement. “In addition, the local process know-how and specific long-term experience with the construction and operation of the plants were essential considerations to us.”

Evonik’s project will boost its annual capacity for hydrophilic fumed silica by some 20%. The company said increased demand prompted its decision to carry out the expansion effort. 

This month Powder & Bulk Solids reported that the German firm said it sold its Galena, KS agricultural chemicals to funds managed by London-based investment firm Permira.

For more news headlines, articles, and equipment reviews, visit our Equipment Zones