Press release
North America
August 3, 2016

Evonik Announces Capacity Increase of Sodium Methylate in Mobile, Alabama

Meeting increased market demand for renewable energy

Evonik Corporation has recently completed a significant capacity expansion at its sodium methylate plant in Mobile, Alabama. The company has increased capacity to 72,000 metric tons per year through operational excellence, as well as infrastructure investments.

Although sodium methylate is used in various applications including pharmaceuticals, polymers and agrochemicals synthesis, it has become the catalyst of choice for modern large-scale biodiesel production accounting for more than 80 percent of the biodiesel produced in North America. “The U.S. market for biodiesel will continue to grow,” said Stefan Plass, head of Business Line Functional Solutions. “Ensuring our customers have a key raw material they need, when they need it, is why we have invested our resources here in Mobile – to better meet our customers’ needs.”

“This represents the first phase of expansion plans for sodium methylate and demonstrates our continuing commitment to the biodiesel industry,” said Alexander Weber, general manager and vice president North America, Business Line Functional Solutions. “Evonik has also increased its rail fleet for sodium methylate ensuring that the additional volume will be available throughout the U.S.”

“We are proud that our Mobile facility has the unique advantages of integrated utilities, excellent logistical access, on-site engineering and a highly trained and dedicated workforce,” said Mark Hanlon, sodium methylate plant manager.

Besides Mobile, Evonik also produces sodium methylate in Germany and Argentina. Sodium methylate serves an important function as a catalyst in the production of biodiesel, a renewable biofuel that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and therefore contributes to a more sustainable environment.

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Company information

Evonik, the creative industrial group from Germany, is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. Profitable growth and a sustained increase in the value of the company form the heart of Evonik’s corporate strategy. Its activities focus on the key megatrends health, nutrition, resource efficiency and globalization. Evonik benefits specifically from its innovative prowess and integrated technology platforms.

Evonik is active in over 100 countries around the world. In fiscal 2015 more than 33,000 employees generated sales of around €13.5 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of about €2.47 billion.

Disclaimer

In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.