Evonik Opens Expanded Production Facilities in Japan

Evonik has opened its newly expanded facilities in Ako, Japan, which will produce its SIPERNAT and CARPLEX lines of specialty silicas. The investment adds a 50% increase Japanese production capacity for specialty silicas, which the specialty chemicals company manufactures through DSL. Japan Co., Ltd. (DSL). Evonik has a 51% stake in DSL, a joint venture with the Shionogi & Co., Ltd. in Japan.

Applications for SIPERNAT and CARPLEX are used as drug carriers in pharmaceuticals, and as flow aids in powdered foods and thickener for toothpastes.   

“The expansion will allow us to continue providing exceptionally high-quality silica that will support the growth of our customers in sophisticated sectors such as the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals industries,” said Andreas Fischer, head of the Silica Business Line within the Resource Efficiency Segment.

Evonik is also expanding its global silica production capacities with a new facility in Americana, Brazil, and a new production plant for precipitated silica in the U.S., which is expected to be completed by the end of 2017.