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Nouryon expands production in China
Nouryon is increasing its manufacturing capacity for premium colloidal silica at its Guangzhou site, addressing the rising demand in Asia Pacific for advanced emissions control catalysts, electrical steel coatings, and non-stick cookware applications.
By increasing production closer to its customer base, Nouryon is enhancing supply chain efficiency, offering shorter lead times, and ensuring reliable access to critical materials for next-generation technologies.
Colloidal silica plays a vital role in various industrial applications. In emissions control catalysts, the material helps vehicles and industrial equipment meet stringent environmental standards. In electrical steel coatings, it enhances the energy efficiency of transformers used in power grids. Furthermore, in non-stick cookware coatings, colloidal silica contributes to improved durability and performance.
Focus on innovation and regional growth
Patrick Wilhelm, Vice President for Growth Accelerator Industrials at Nouryon, highlighted the importance of this investment, stating: “China’s technology-driven industries are moving fast and access to advanced colloidal silica is becoming a competitive necessity for manufacturers pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in catalysts and performance coatings.” Wilhelm emphasised that the expansion aligns with Nouryon’s commitment to supporting its customers as they scale demanding applications.
Sobers Sethi, Senior Vice President for Emerging Markets and China at Nouryon, added: “Asia Pacific is one of the world’s most dynamic regions for premium colloidal silica, and China is a big driver of that growth. Expanding our production in the region ensures Nouryon is positioned to grow alongside our customers as this market continues to need advanced solutions.”
Strengthening regional innovation capabilities
The Guangzhou expansion follows the opening of Nouryon’s innovation centre in Shanghai in November 2025. This facility hosts eight specialised laboratories, including one dedicated to colloidal silica research for catalyst technologies and related applications. These investments underscore Nouryon’s commitment to fostering innovation, strengthening collaboration with customers, and driving sustainable growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
The “Levasil” colloidal silica product line is utilised across Nouryon’s Resource Solutions segment for catalyst applications and its Performance Materials segment for coatings formulations, reflecting its versatility and importance across diverse industries.
