Evonik recently announced that its new multi-purpose silicones manufacturing facility in Geesthacht, Germany, is now fully operational after completing final commissioning tests and gaining the necessary authority approvals. Engineers carried out small batch runs and the essential safety assessments required for production to start, despite the added complexity posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following the inauguration in January, the new plant is now producing the silicones and silyl-terminated polymers (SMPs) used, for example, in parquet adhesive flooring, liquid membranes for roofing, and electronic potting applications. According to Evonik, the extra production capacities will provide its customers with a faster and more reliable supply of products, as well as a wider choice of products such as innovative nanotechnologies.

“Fortunately, we commissioned the facility’s new tank farm before the full impact of the Covid-19 virus was realized, but still had testing to do before we could be fully operational,” said Sabine Giessler-Blank, Ph.D., head of the Polymer & Construction Specialties Product Line. “I’m very proud of the achievements of our team and our partners—as we still managed to complete the project on schedule despite several additional safety measures.”

For more information, visit www.evonik.com.