WACKER has begun production of hybrid polymers at its N眉nchritz site, marking a significant expansion in the company鈥檚 manufacturing capabilities. The new facility is currently in the ramp-up phase, with full production expected to follow shortly.
Hybrid polymers produced at N眉nchritz are primarily used as binders in high-quality adhesives and sealants. These materials are favored for their ease of use and are increasingly popular among manufacturers of construction and assembly adhesives, parquet-flooring adhesives, and liquid waterproofing membranes for roofs and balconies. WACKER鈥檚 alpha-silane-terminated hybrid polymers enable the formulation of tin-free, environmentally friendly, and consumer-safe products.
The investment in the new production plant totals several tens of millions of euros and has created about 50 new jobs at the N眉nchritz location. The state-of-the-art facility will replace the existing production plant in Burghausen and significantly increase WACKER鈥檚 capacity for hybrid polymer production.
Christian Kirsten, a member of WACKER鈥檚 Managing Board, said the hybrid polymer market is 鈥渆xtremely attractive鈥� with annual growth rates exceeding 5% in some cases. He emphasized that WACKER, already a global leader in silane-terminated polymers, aims to support customer growth by expanding its production capabilities. Kirsten noted the new facility aligns with the company鈥檚 strategic focus on tailor-made specialty products that offer innovation potential, high vertical integration, and significant benefits to customers.
The advanced production line at N眉nchritz incorporates numerous technical innovations, enabling highly efficient continuous production. The facility鈥檚 design shortens the distances between key manufacturing steps, increasing operational efficiency. Tom Koini, head of the Silicones business division, highlighted that the new plant will multiply the company鈥檚 output and can be expanded to meet future demand. 鈥淚f the market continues to grow as dynamically as before, we will be able to significantly boost our production capacity once again,鈥� he said.
Hybrid polymers are among the fastest-growing segments in WACKER鈥檚 Silicones division. Marketed under the brand GENIOSIL庐 STP-E, these silane crosslinking binders are used in industrial and construction adhesives, sealants, and liquid waterproofing membranes. Thanks to WACKER鈥檚 proprietary alpha-silane technology, the polymers allow for tin-free product formulations, addressing growing environmental and consumer concerns.
Koini pointed out that performance, alongside sustainability, is increasingly important in adhesive and sealant formulations. 鈥淭hese factors make our hybrid polymers very attractive to customers,鈥� he said. The technology also enables customized binders for a wide range of adhesive applications, supporting strong demand growth in the coming years.
The new facility is a boost for the local economy, creating 50 new jobs. With approximately 1,600 employees, WACKER is the largest chemical employer in Saxony.
