Investor Relations
February 9, 2015

Evonik strengthens leading market position in superabsorbent polymers with flexible and cost-optimized capacity expansions

Evonik Industries plans to increase its production capacities for superabsorbent polymers with selected debottlenecking measures. With the project engineering phase complete, implementation will now be conducted in several phases.

Overall, these measures will increase the global superabsorbent production capacities of Evonik by approximately 40,000 metric tons a year. The Group sees the biggest potential in its Krefeld and Rheinmünster plants. The resulting flexibility for planning and utilizing production capacities will be used to secure and expand Evonik's leading market position in the area of superabsorbent polymers.

Debottlenecking measures require a relatively low investment and can be implemented within a comparatively short time. This enables the specialty chemicals company to respond quickly and economically to market developments. "The implementation in phases allows us to increase the production volume as necessary, which supports our strategy of value-based, sustainable growth," says Norbert Westerholt, head of the Baby Care Business Line. The measures are also intended to further advance the competitiveness of Evonik in the area of superabsorbent polymers and to improve the regional availability of products.

Evonik is a leading global producer of superabsorbent polymers, a key source material for the manufacture of diapers and feminine hygiene products. The company's global facilities currently have a production capacity of approximately 570,000 metric tons a year.

Company information

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 2013 more than 33,500 employees generated sales of around €12.7 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of about €2.0 billion.

Disclaimer

News 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.