Rhodia to move specialty elastomer production to South Carolina

CRANBURY, N.J. (Nov. 28)—Rhodia Inc. said it will move its North American specialty elastomers production to Rock Hill, S.C., from Troy, N.Y., as part of a phased implementation that includes a $1.5 million to $2 million expansion of the Rock Hill facility that will take place over the course of the next year. "This move reinforces the company's long-term commitment to the silicone elastomers business," said General Manager Gilles Grenier. Rhodia plans to support its worldwide and North American leadership positions in the mold making market, strengthen manufacturing and operation capabilities, and accelerate development into new silicone elastomers markets with the changes, the firm said. The Troy facility manufactures its silicone elastomer products for the mold making, textile coating, automotive, aerospace, entertainment, architectural and construction industries. The Rock Hill operation employs 38, producing silicone goods used as release agents for paper, tire and rubber compounds.