ESSEN, Germany—Evonik A.G. will increase production capacity for precipitated silica at its site in Adapazari, Turkey, by 4,000 metric tons per year..
Startup of the new production complex, operated as a joint venture with Turkish company EGE Kimya, is scheduled for 2020, said in a June 29 statement.
The firm did not disclose investment specifics, only that it was "in the lower double-digit million euro range." Evonik said the expansion will support high levels of demand for highly dispersible silica used in producing green tires, particularly in southeastern Europe and the Middle East.
As well as producing its Ultrasil rubber silica, Evonik said the facility will also serve growing market demand for precipitated silica.
Evonik said the firm is reacting to the "massive" demand in the industry and strengthening its business partnership with tire manufacturers.