Evonik strengthens leading market position in superabsorbent polymers with flexible and cost-optimized capacity expansions

Evonik Industries plans to increase its production capacities for superabsorbent polymers with selected debottlenecking measures. With the project engineering phase complete, implementation will now be conducted in several phases. 

Overall, these measures will increase the global superabsorbent production capacities of Evonik by approximately 40,000 metric tons a year. The Group sees the biggest potential in its Krefeld and Rheinmünster plants. The resulting flexibility for planning and utilizing production capacities will be used to secure and expand Evonik's leading market position in the area of superabsorbent polymers. 

Debottlenecking measures require a relatively low investment and can be implemented within a comparatively short time. This enables the specialty chemicals company to respond quickly and economically to market developments. "The implementation in phases allows us to increase the production volume as necessary, which supports our strategy of value-based, sustainable growth," says Norbert Westerholt, head of the Baby Care Business Line. The measures are also intended to further advance the competitiveness of Evonik in the area of superabsorbent polymers and to improve the regional availability of products. 

Evonik is a leading global producer of superabsorbent polymers, a key source material for the manufacture of diapers and feminine hygiene products. The company's global facilities currently have a production capacity of approximately 570,000 metric tons a year.