WACKER raises pyrogenic silica output

Wacker Chemie AG is raising its production capacities for HDK® pyrogenic silica. To this end, WACKER is expanding a hydrophobic silica specialties plant at its site in Burghausen, Germany. The plant’s capacity will rise by 40 percent as a result, with capital expenditures on the project amounting to €1.4 million. With work beginning early next year, project completion is expected in the third quarter of 2017.

WACKER produces HDK® pyrogenic silica at Burghausen and Nünchritz in Germany and Zhangjiagang in China. The company is the world’s third-largest manufacturer in this sector.

Hydrophobic – i.e. water-repellent – specialty silicas are used in toner powders for printers. They enhance the stability of the end product, as well as its flow and charging properties. Used in specialty adhesives and paints, these kinds of silicas permit optimum adjustment of rheological and mechanical properties.

The expansion will enable WACKER to meet rising customer demand for high-quality specialties and tailored solutions, according to Auguste Willems, WACKER Executive Board member.  

Ultrapure powder-form amorphous silicon dioxide is used as a filler in silicone elastomers and as a rheology-control additive in paints, adhesives, unsaturated polyester resins and plastisols. It also serves as a flow aid in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical and food-processing industries.