Evonik’s superabsorbent joint venture realizes mechanical completion in Saudi Arabia
- Mechanical completion certificate for superabsorbent polymers plant signed
- Preparation for experimental operation of the new plant in Jubail, Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Acrylic Polymer Company (SAPCO), a joint venture which has been established by Evonik Industries and the Saudi Acrylic Acid Company (SAAC), has signed the mechanical completion certificate for the superabsorbents polymer plant in Jubail, which was built under Evonik license. The signing of the certificate marks an important milestone for the start-up of the plant and the beginning of commercial production in the fourth quarter of 2013. SAAC is a joint venture of the Saudi companies National Industrialization Company (Tasnee) and Sahara Petrochemicals.
"The new facility is the first superabsorbents production plant in the Middle East region", says Patrik Wohlhauser, Evonik Executive Board member and responsible for the Consumer, Health & Nutrition reporting segment. "That underlines Evonik’s strong commitment to the emerging markets and will boost once more our leading position for superabsorbents."
Evonik is a leading global producer of superabsorbents, a key basic material for the manufacture of diapers and feminine hygiene products. The production capacity of the new facility will be around 80,000 metric tons p.a.
"With this investment, we’ll contribute to establishing the value chain from oil to diaper production in Saudi Arabia. We are happy that with Tasnee and Sahara we have found very professional partners for our regional growth strategy", says Dr. Claus Rettig, Head of the Evonik Consumer Specialties Business Unit. "Now we can offer our customers high-quality and up-to-date technology to serve the growing market of the Middle East."
About Evonik
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 2012 more than 33,000 employees generated sales of around €13.4 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of about €2.4 billion (excluding Real Estate in both cases).
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.