Evonik to expand Charleston, US precipitated silica output by 50% to meet high demand

LONDON (ICIS)–Evonik is expanding precipitated silica capacity at its South Carolina, US site by 50% to meet high demand in the region, it said on Wednesday.

The specialty chemicals producer said it had invested “a mid-double-digit million-euro amount” to add a new line at the Charleston site.  Construction is due to start in mid-2024 before becoming operational in early 2026.

“The new line in South Carolina is satisfying the high demand in particular from the tire industry in North America,” Evonik said in a statement.

In addition to being a key ingredient for fuel-efficient tires, silica is used in other products such as toothpaste and coatings.

The Charleston facilities are part of a network of 18 precipitated silica production sites globally, Evonik said in a statement, without disclosing capacities at the site.