WACKER expands its specialty silicone manufacturing capacities in China. The chemical group will manufacture functional silicone fluids, silicone emulsions and silicone elastomer gels.
Investments of some €150 million have been earmarked for the expansion project. The project has already received all necessary permits from local authorities. The new facilities are scheduled to come on stream in the second half of 2025.
Meeting Growing Demand for Innovative Specialty Silicones
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Demand from customers in China is growing steadily, especially for innovative specialty silicones. The new production facilities and our expanded research and development activities on site will do more than just strengthen our presence in China – they also underscore our determination to offer even better service to our customers in China and the Asia-Pacific region going forward,” said Alvin Hu, president of WACKER China.
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Silicone fluids, emulsions and gels are used in many kinds of applications, which is why we anticipate growth to continue. Expanding capacity in Zhangjiagang is a logical next step in the Group’s strategy of continuing to make specialty silicones a bigger part of its product portfolio,” said Christian Kirsten, executive board member, Global Silicone Business, WACKER.
Silicone emulsions and elastomer gels from WACKER are typically used in textile, cosmetic and personal-care applications, including skin creams, shampoos and fabric softeners. Here they keep makeup from staining clothing, reduce the negative impact that contact with water has on sunscreen protection and allow moisturizers and night creams to remain pleasantly silky soft.
Functional silicone fluids, on the other hand, are important starting materials for industrial applications such as impregnating or release agents. Other applications for silicone fluids include their use as additives for construction, paper, paints and coatings.
Silicones from WACKER are used in traditional application areas, such as the textile, leather and fiber industries and for chemical processes and
coatings. They also play a key role in particularly innovative industries, such as electromobility, renewable power generation and medical technology.
Explore Silicone Range from WACKER
Source: WACKER