Production Starts at New Evonik Silicones Plant

Specialty chemicals firm Evonik announced Wednesday that final commissioning tests and additional safety assessments have been completed at its new manufacturing facility in Geesthacht, Germany, enabling the company to start production operations at the site.

Production of silicones and silyl-terminated polymers (SMPs) is underway at the plant. The “double-digit million euro” facility was commissioned last January. Evonik said the additional capacity provides its customers with a reliable and fast supply of products.

“Fortunately, we commissioned the facility’s new tank farm before the full impact of the COVID-19 virus was realized, but still had testing to do before we could be fully operational,” Dr. Sabine Geissler-Blank, head of Evonik’s Polymer & Construction Specialties product line, in a release. “I’m very proud of our team and our partners’ achievements – as we still managed to complete the project on schedule despite additional safety measures.”

Silicones and SMPs produced in Geesthacht are used as binders in adhesives and sealants in parquet adhesives, adhesives in wound care products, in electronics applications, and in other medical products.