Evonik, a global leader in silica production, has officially begun the expansion of its Charleston site in Berkeley County, South Carolina. This major development will increase the production capacity of precipitated silica by 50%, primarily aimed at meeting the rising demand from the tire industry, especially for green tires in the U.S. market.
“North America is a vital growth area for us,” said Guido Skudlarek, President North America at Evonik. “This investment highlights our commitment to the region’s growth and customer needs. We’re focused on delivering innovative, sustainable solutions that offer meaningful value to our clients.”
This expansion is part of Evonik’s strategic efforts to strengthen its presence in North America and reinforce its long-term dedication to the silica business. The decision was driven by strong market demand, positive engineering reports, and solid support from site partners and local authorities.
Lauren Kjeldsen, Head of the Smart Materials Division, added, “Our Charleston site will become a central hub for sustainable silica products in North America. Its location, skilled workforce, and advanced capabilities make it an ideal site for this expansion.”
Evonik has received investment incentives from the South Carolina Department of Commerce and Berkeley County Economic Development for the project. Kenneth Bittner, Vice President of Tax at Evonik, emphasized the importance of local support, saying, “The business-friendly environment in South Carolina was a key factor in choosing Charleston for this expansion.”
Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb expressed pride in the region’s growing industrial sector and welcomed Evonik’s contribution. “Evonik’s expansion at Bushy Park in Goose Creek exemplifies the success of our industrial base. We look forward to the continued production and job creation this project will bring.”
Evonik also donated to the Berkeley County School District’s Career & Technical Education Department to support their manufacturing and automation courses, further demonstrating its commitment to the local community.
Sustainability is a central focus of this expansion. “Our teams have worked diligently to create a comprehensive plan that aligns with our sustainability goals,” said Emmanuel Auer, Head of the Silica Business Line. “This project will help us meet our sustainability targets by integrating advanced silica technologies with a low carbon footprint.”
The expanded Charleston site will strengthen local supply chains for the tire industry and introduce circular raw materials in the production of ULTRASIL® Silica, contributing to the sector’s sustainability efforts.
Silica is essential for fuel-efficient tire production, which can lower fuel consumption by up to 8% compared to standard tires. As demand for such tires grows in North America, Evonik continues to invest in modernizing its silica production and expanding globally to meet the market’s needs.
Evonik operates a network of 18 precipitated silica production sites worldwide, with Charleston playing a key role in this global strategy. The company produces precipitated silica under the ULTRASIL®, ZEODENT®, and SIPERNAT® brands, as well as fumed silica under the AEROSIL® brand.