Aether, Dow India launch silicone manufacturing research project

Mumbai, India – Indian speciality chemical and advanced intermediate manufacturer Aether Industries and Dow India have launched a multi-year research programme focused on developing silicone manufacturing technologies in India.

The programme will use Aether’s R&D and pilot facilities in Surat in northwestern India to develop “next-generation manufacturing technologies” for silicones, said Aether in a social media post 31 July.

Aether said the initiative is among India’s first dedicated collaborative research programmes focused on silicone manufacturing technology.

"This isn't about making silicone products. It's about developing the manufacturing technology behind silicones - the highly specialised process that only a handful of global companies possess expertise in," said the social media post.

The project, said Aether, aims to strengthen domestic innovation and manufacturing capabilities in a market that continues to “rely heavily on imported silicone technologies.”

Dow, said Aether, selected the company for its expertise in process chemistry, technology development and process scale-up.

Investment details or the project timeline were not disclosed.