Evonik expands rubber silanes production in China

Essen, Germany – Evonik Industries AG has expanded rubber silanes production at its joint venture manufacturing plant in Rizhao, in the southeastern Chinese province of Shandong.

With the project, Evonik has “substantially increased” production capacity for silanes, according to an announcement from the Essen-based group. 

The target is to meet growing demand for sustainable solutions within the global tire & rubber industry, said the statement issued 2 Aug.

By expanding its 'regional product portfolio' for liquid and solid rubber silanes, Evonik now offers grades previously only produced at sites in Europe.

In addition to 'sulphur-functional silane Si 69 and solid silane admixture X 50-S, [offerings now include] grades such as Si 75, Si 266 and corresponding admixtures.'

The additions, said Evonik, help optimise tire and rubber properties, such as rolling resistance, abrasion resistance, tensile strength and compression set.

The project at Rizhao involved the implementation of “advanced technology” in manufacturing process, continued Evonik's statement.

Facilities and technology have been upgraded to reduce waste and side reactions while enhancing product purity, the producer stated.

Additionally, the production unit now features increased automation and improved auxiliary facilities, such as a wastewater pre-treatment plant.

Meanwhile, carbon emissions have been reduced helped by the "advanced technology" employed at the facility.

“The expansion represents our continuous efforts to promote sustainability in China," said Fuliang Xia, president of Evonik Greater China.

The project, added Peter Friesenhahn, head of silanes business line, “ensures a stable and dependable product supply” to meet the sustainability goals of customers.

Evonik Lanxing (Rizhao) Chemical Industrial Co. Ltd is a joint venture between Evonik Industries AG, DEG (Deutsche Investitions-und Entwicklungs GmbH), and Rizhao Lanxing Chemical Industry Co. Ltd.