Rhodia completes silica expansion at Illinois plant
Rhodia on Wednesday inaugurated its expansion of highly-dispersible silica production at its Chicago Heights site in Illinois, furthering its commitment to support the future growth of its customers.
The expansion of 16,000 tons increases Rhodia’s North American capacity by 33%, according to the company. The ribbon-cutting ceremony included customers, key business partners, and public officials.
“One year after commissioning our new plant in Qingdao, China, this additional increase in production capacity confirms our continued commitment to leadership in highly dispersible silica,” said Tom Benner, president of Rhodia Silica. “We are also in the construction phase of a similar expansion at Collonges au Mont d'Or, France that will be completed in 2012.
“Combined, these three latest investments increase our global capacity of highly dispersible silica over 40%, ensuring that we are prepared now to meet long-term growth expectations associated with demand for fuel-saving tires,” he added.
“Our teams are extremely committed to deliver value to our customers in the tire and automotive sectors in their quest for sustainable solutions to end consumers,” said Mike Quinn, general manager for Rhodia Silica in North America.
The Chicago Heights site, located south of Chicago and founded in 1995, is one of eight Rhodia sites producing highly-dispersible silica at the highest-quality standard for fuel-saving tires, battery separators, and other key markets.
Rhodia, a member of the Solvay group, desbribes itself as a specialty chemical company resolutely committed to sustainable development.
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