Solvay details silica expansion plans

European Rubber Journal has an article (subscription required) that details Solvay’s two-year expansion program for its precipitated silica capacity. The program includes a new plant in Poland, which started up this year, as well as a new plant in Korea that is set for startup in 2016. The new capacity is being driven by tire applications due to tire labeling requirements, higher fuel economy ratings for cars and trucks, and efforts by automakers to reduce the carbon footprint of their vehicles. Some of the additional capacity will be dedicated to Efficium, which was launched in February and offers higher productivity and flexibility in manufacturing passenger-car and truck tires, according to Solvay. Together, the new plants in Poland and Korea will add 185 KTPY of new capacity to Solvay’s silica business.