A global leader in silica production, Evonik (Goose Creek, South Carolina, USA) announced the groundbreaking of a significant expansion at its Charleston site in South Carolina’s Berkeley County. This new development will boost the production capacity of precipitated silica by 50%, catering to the increasing demand from the tire industry, particularly for green tires in the U.S.
“North America is a crucial growth region for us,” says Guido Skudlarek, Evonik’s president – North America. “This investment in the Charleston site underscores our dedication to meeting regional growth and customer needs. We are committed to providing innovative and sustainable solutions that offer significant benefits to our customers.”
The expansion is a strategic move by Evonik to solidify its presence in the region and demonstrate its long-term commitment to the silica business. The company has been meticulously preparing for this step, driven by strong customer and market pull, positive engineering updates, and robust support from site partners and local authorities.
“With this expansion, our Charleston site will become a key hub for sustainable silica products in North America,” says Lauren Kjeldsen, head of the Smart Materials Division, which includes the silica business. “This site’s strategic location, dedicated workforce, and advanced silica processing capabilities make it ideal for this expansion.”
Evonik has received investment incentives from the South Carolina Department of Commerce and Berkeley County Economic Development to expand its precipitated silica production at the Charleston location.
“Their support and the overall business-friendly environment in South Carolina were crucial in selecting the Charleston site for the expansion,” says Kenneth Bittner, vice president of tax at Evonik.
“Berkeley County is proud of its diverse industrial sector — one that is thriving and growing,” says Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb. “Evonik’s expansion at Bushy Park in Goose Creek is a prime example of that success. We look forward to the company’s continued production in our community and the quality jobs that this project continues to create.”
Evonik is proud to support the local community by providing a donation to the Berkeley County School District Career & Technical Education Department for the development of their manufacturing and automation courses.
Evonik’s focus on sustainability is a core aspect of this expansion.
“Our teams have worked diligently over the years to develop a comprehensive expansion plan,” says Emmanuel Auer, head of the Silica Business line. “This project will help us achieve our sustainability targets by combining the positive impact of our silica technologies with a low carbon footprint. It highlights our commitment to the Science Based Targets initiative.”
The expansion at the Charleston site will enhance local supply chains for the tire industry and introduce circular raw materials to manufacture ULTRASIL Silica, aligning with the sustainability goals of the tire sector.
Silica is essential for producing fuel-efficient tires, which can reduce fuel consumption by up to 8% compared to conventional tires. The demand for such tires in North America is growing rapidly, driven by the need for improved fuel efficiency and reduced rolling resistance.
Evonik has consistently invested in modernizing its silica production and making strategic acquisitions globally to strengthen its business. The Charleston facilities are part of a network of 18 precipitated silica production sites worldwide.
A leading global manufacturer of silica, Evonik produces the precipitated silica brands ULTRASIL, ZEODENT, and SIPERNAT, along with fumed silica under the brand name AEROSIL and other products for various industries worldwide.
Source: Evonik, www.silica-specialist.com.