Evonik Initiates Major Silica Expansion at Charleston Facility to Meet Rising Demand

Evonik Initiates Major Silica Expansion at Charleston Facility to Meet Rising Demand

(IN BRIEF) Evonik has commenced a major expansion at its Charleston site in Berkeley County, South Carolina, aimed at increasing the production capacity of precipitated silica by 50% to meet rising demand from the tire industry, especially for green tires. This initiative underscores the company’s commitment to regional growth and sustainability. Supported by local investment incentives, the expansion will establish Charleston as a key hub for sustainable silica products in North America. Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb highlighted the project’s significance for the local industrial sector. Evonik is also contributing to community education initiatives in manufacturing and automation. The Charleston facility is part of Evonik’s global network of 18 silica production sites.

(PRESS RELEASE) ESSEN, 2-Oct-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Evonik, a recognized leader in silica production, has officially broken ground on a significant expansion project at its Charleston site in Berkeley County, South Carolina. This initiative aims to increase the production capacity of precipitated silica by 50%, driven primarily by the surging demand from the tire industry, particularly for green tires in the U.S. market.

“North America represents a vital growth area for our operations,” stated Guido Skudlarek, President of Evonik North America. “This investment in our Charleston facility highlights our commitment to addressing regional growth while aligning with our customers’ evolving needs. We are dedicated to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions that provide substantial advantages to our clientele.”

This strategic expansion reinforces Evonik’s position in the region and reflects its long-term dedication to the silica sector. The company’s decision is based on robust market demand, positive engineering advancements, and substantial backing from local partners and authorities.

Lauren Kjeldsen, Head of the Smart Materials Division encompassing the silica business, remarked, “With this expansion, our Charleston facility will emerge as a central hub for sustainable silica products in North America. The site’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and advanced processing capabilities make it well-suited for this growth.”

In recognition of its expansion efforts, Evonik has received investment incentives from the South Carolina Department of Commerce and Berkeley County Economic Development. Kenneth Bittner, Vice President of Tax at Evonik, noted, “The support we have received, coupled with South Carolina’s favorable business environment, played a pivotal role in our decision to expand at this location.”

Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb expressed pride in the area’s diverse industrial sector, stating, “Evonik’s expansion at Bushy Park in Goose Creek exemplifies our thriving community. We look forward to the company’s ongoing operations and the quality job opportunities this project will generate.”

In addition to its expansion efforts, Evonik is committed to giving back to the local community, exemplified by its donation to the Berkeley County School District Career & Technical Education Department to support the development of manufacturing and automation courses.

Sustainability remains a core focus of Evonik’s expansion strategy. Emmanuel Auer, Head of the Silica Business Line, explained, “Our teams have meticulously crafted a comprehensive expansion plan that aligns with our sustainability objectives. This project will allow us to enhance our silica technologies while maintaining a low carbon footprint, reinforcing our commitment to the Science Based Targets initiative.”

The Charleston facility’s expansion will not only bolster local supply chains for the tire industry but will also incorporate circular raw materials in the production of ULTRASIL® Silica, supporting the sustainability goals of the sector.

Silica plays a crucial role in the production of fuel-efficient tires, which can lead to an up to eight percent reduction in fuel consumption compared to traditional tires. As the demand for such tires in North America continues to rise, Evonik is well-positioned to meet this need.

The company has a history of investing in modernizing its silica production facilities and executing strategic acquisitions worldwide to strengthen its market presence. The Charleston site is part of Evonik’s global network of 18 precipitated silica production facilities.

Evonik stands as a leading global manufacturer of silica, producing not only precipitated silica brands such as ULTRASIL®, ZEODENT®, and SIPERNAT® but also fumed silica under the AEROSIL® brand, serving various industries across the globe.

About Evonik

Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The company is active in more than 100 countries around the world and generated sales of €15.3 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €1.66 billion in 2023. Evonik goes far beyond chemistry to create innovative, profitable, and sustainable solutions for customers. About 32,000 employees work together for a common purpose: We want to improve life today and tomorrow.

ABOUT SMART MATERIALS

The Smart Materials division includes businesses with innovative materials that enable resource-saving solutions and replace conventional materials. They are the smart answer to the major challenges of our time: environment, energy efficiency, urbanization, mobility and health. The Smart Materials division generated sales of €4.46 billion in 2023 with more than 8,100 employees.

Disclaimer

In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.

Media Contacts:

Anabel Tennassie
Head of Market Communications Silanes
+49 6181 59 12573
anabel.tennassie@evonik.com

Nina Peck
Head of Market Communications Smart Materials
+49 201 177-2223
nina.peck@evonik.com

SOURCE: Evonik