Kolkata, West Bengal — Wacker Metroark Chemicals is investing EUR6 m to expand silicone production.
The expansion will take place at the company's Amtala site, near Kolkata.
The expansion will provide an extra 6 kT/year capacity for hydrosilylation. The output will be used in functional silicone fluids.
Cell formation and structure in polyurethane foam can be adjusted by using silicone surfactants in formulations, the company said. The surfactants are used in foams for car interior trim and insulation materials.
According to Wacker, the expansion will meet rising regional demand for polyurethanes in India and the surrounding area.
'We are broadening product portfolio and opening up new markets in the growth regions of India and Southeast Asia,' said Christian Hartel, executive board member at Wacker, in a statement.
