Capacity Boost to Meet Regional Demand
Evonik is significantly increasing its sodium methylate production capacity at the Rosario plant in Sante Fé Province, Argentina. This expansion aims to bolster regional sustainability and economic resilience, aligning with Brazil’s heightened biodiesel quotas and New Industry Brazil (NIB) objectives. The enhancement reaffirms Evonik’s global leadership in catalyst manufacturing and dedication to sustainable innovation.
Strategic Expansion to Drive Biodiesel Productivity
Responding to rising regional biofuel demand, Evonik’s annual production capacity will surge by 50%, from 60,000 tons to 90,000 tons. This boost in sodium methylate catalyst production is set to enhance biodiesel productivity and reduce production costs throughout South America. “The sodium methylate plant is crucial to Argentina and neighboring countries, with Brazil as a key export market,” stated Dr. Hendrik Schönfelder, regional president for Central and South America at Evonik. The investment promises to foster local value and economic stability.
Aligning with Regional Biofuel Objectives
The expansion comes at a pivotal time, following Brazil’s recent mandate to blend 15% biodiesel (B15) with fossil diesel by 2025. This move supports NIB’s goal to amplify the role of biofuels in transportation energy. “With the completion of the Argentine plant expansion and the new alkoxide facility in Singapore, we solidify our status as a leading global catalyst manufacturer committed to sustainable development and industry innovation,” commented Cauê de Arruda, head of Evonik Catalysts Central and South America.
Commitment to Sustainable Growth and Safety
As part of Evonik’s global strategy, the plant’s expansion underscores the company’s vision of advancing the biodiesel sector and staying close to customers in South and North America, as well as in the Asian market. Dr. Harald Schwager, a member of Evonik’s Executive Board, highlighted the plant’s role in decarbonizing the mobility sector, achieving greenhouse gas emission reduction targets, and reducing fossil fuel dependence. A ceremony marking the expansion was held at the Rosario plant on July 11th, where site employees were honored with Evonik’s Silver Safety Award for seven years without a lost time accident.
