Elkem acquires French silicone production facility

Oslo – Elkem SAS has finalised the acquisition of a new silicones manufacturing plant in Salaise-sur-Sanne, France, as part of the move to strengthen its speciality silicones business.

Elkem acquired the new unit from Thor, a producer and supplier of speciality biocides, flame retardants and personal care ingredients, said the Norwegian materials supplier in a 23 Nov statement.

The site manufactures “high-quality” organo-functional silicones for speciality applications used in markets including personal care and release coatings.

Organo-functional silicones are typically used as additives at low levels in formulations to enhance performances and bring efficiencies in multiple applications.

Due to their low dosage and high performance, they reduce the environmental impact of production. 

“This new facility helps strengthen Elkem’s position in key, high-value speciailty markets by bringing new manufacturing capabilities and additional capacity,” said Frédéric Jacquin, SVP in charge of Elkem’s silicones division. 

Elkem said it had run production trials at the plant for the past several months to ensure that the factory’s manufacturing equipment is "fit-for-purpose and in good working condition."

The company said it also worked closely with the local administration to obtain appropriate administrative permits aligned with Elkem’s planned activities.

The new plant is located in the area south of Lyon, near Elkem Silicones’ existing facilities in France.

Elkem operates an upstream facility in Roussillon in southern France and its main European downstream production site is located in Saint-Fons, near Lyon.

Furthermore, the company has recently opened a new global research & Innovation centre in Saint-Fons.

“The acquisition confirms the strategic importance of the Rhône Valley for Elkem’s silicones innovation and supply chains,” said Laurent Dumont, general manager of Elkem Silicones France.