Nouryon completes colloidal silica expansion in Sweden

Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) has raised production capacity for surface-modified colloidal silica at its Bohus site in Sweden.

The €4M expansion primarily adds capacity for the company’s Levasil CC-branded product line, which supports customers in the paints and coatings market in their switch from solvent-based to more sustainable water-based coatings.

A product of two natural ingredients – sand and water – colloidal silica is a versatile product that enhances and improves key functionalities of a variety of products and manufacturing processes, including industrial and architectural coatings.

"Levasil CC allows coatings customers to comply with and stay ahead of regulations while offering benefits such as a more attractive look, better durability and smoother surfaces,” said Patrick Wilhelm, Director Levasil Colloidal Silica at Nouryon.

"This expansion will help us meet growing demand and anticipate future growth as we continue to research and develop new applications.”

Niek Stapel, Managing Director Pulp and Performance Chemicals at Nouryon, added: "This is a significant investment.

"It reflects our commitment to meet our customers’ ever-changing needs, grow with them, and enable them to make more sustainable products.”

Nouryon is a leading global producer of colloidal silica products, with production facilities in the Americas, Asia, and Europe.

The main markets include electronics, coatings, construction, catalysts, and batteries.

The Bohus expansion is the latest in a series of investments to better serve and grow with its customers in the paints and coatings market.

For example, the company recently introduced an ingredient that optimises the performance of water-based multicolour paints.

The company also agreed with Renmatix to jointly develop biomass-derived performance additives for architectural paints and construction materials.