Wacker To Raise Prices Of Its Silicone Polymers, Fluids, Silicones From April 1

Wacker To Raise Prices Of Its Silicone Polymers, Fluids, Silicones From April 1

Wacker, the Germany-based chemical group has announced plans to raise prices for its silicone polymers, silicone fluids and silicones from April 1. Depending on product family, region and business area, the price hike would range between 10% and 20%, if permitted by existing customer contracts. The measure has been necessitated by rising raw material and energy costs, according to a company release.

Wacker Silicones is one of the largest silicone manufacturers worldwide with more than 3,000 highly specialised and innovative products. The division’s portfolio ranges from silicone fluids, emulsions, resins, elastomers, silanes, silane-terminated polymers and pyrogenic silica, which are used in the textile sector. When used in fabric conditioners, Wacker’s products impart a pleasant and soft feel to textiles and fabrics. Incidentally, the company expended its silicone production at its Jandira site near Sa?o Paulo in Brazil. It is currently building a multi-purpose facility to manufacture antifoam compounds and functional silicone fluids.

The expansion is Wacker’s response to growing regional demand for specialty silicones needed in the textile, paper, household and personal care and cosmetics industry. Investments for the expansion will total around 7 million euros. While the reactor for silicone fluids is scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2017, the plant for antifoam compounds is expected to come on stream by the end of the year. The new production facility will help the company to solidify its position as one of the world’s leading suppliers of high-quality silicones.