Evonik Industries is building a production plant for precipitated silica near Charleston, South Carolina to supply the tire industry. High-quality precipitated silica is required for producing fuel-efficient tires with good wet grip properties, which can save up to 8% fuel in comparison to conventional car tires, according to Evonik. In North America, the demand for tires with reduced rolling resistance and the associated higher fuel efficiency is reportedly experiencing above-average growth. The facility, with an investment volume of around $120 million, should be completed in 2018, according to the company. Evonik recently acquired the silica business of Huber.
In addition to the precipitated silica Ultrasil and Sipernat, Evonik manufactures the fumed silica Aerosil and matting agents made from silica under the brand name Acematt. The company’s global annual production capacity for precipitated and fumed silica as well as matting agents is around 600,000 metric tons, according to Evonik.
For more information, visit: www.evonik.com
