On October 19, Dow Corning Corporation and Wacker Chemie AG inaugurated the completed second phase of their joint pyrogenic silica
plant in Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu province, China.
The pyrogenic silica plant, together with a siloxane plant will cover an area of 1 million sqm. The combined US$1.8 billion project is said to be China’s largest facility of its kind and among the world’s largest integrated silicones production complexes.
As said, the combined capacity for siloxane and pyrogenic silica at the site, including the second phase silica plant, is expected to reach approximately 210,000 metric tons per year. Investments from both partners for the new pyrogenic silica production facility amounted to a mid double-digit million euros sum.
Bridget Sparrow, Global Business Vice President, Core Business, Dow Corning Corporation, said at the ceremony, “With the inauguration of our siloxane plant at Zhangjiagang last year, Dow Corning now has three of the largest siloxane manufacturing facilities in the world. Today’s expansion inauguration is an addition to our world-class facility here. Our investment in this site significantly enhances our ability to meet the growing needs for silicone and to help spur the growth of many key industries in this region.”
“Demand for advanced silicone products is growing in China and globally,” added Dr Wilhelm Sittenthaler, Board Member of Wacker Chemie AG. “The new facility will allow us not only to respond quickly to local market needs and to improve customer services in the region. We are further able to provide silicone products that meet international quality standards and thus drive the sustainable development of the silicone industry in China.”
The Zhangjiagang site has been constructed with efficient raw material processes, energy-efficient design and environmental control technology, according to the press release. Most raw materials were sourced locally, further reducing emissions, logistics and traffic. The site also adheres to strict international standards with regard to Environment, Health and Safety (EHS).
Pyrogenic silica and siloxane are key ingredients in the manufacture of finished silicone products. Silicone-based materials are used in nearly all sectors including automotive, construction, cosmetics and personal care products, electronics, power generation and distribution, solar energy and textiles.
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