Rockwood Holdings Inc. said its color pigments and services business will build an advanced technology production facility in Augusta, Ga., for the synthesis of iron oxide pigments. This $115 million investment will result in the first new iron oxide pigment production plant in the United States in nearly 35 years said Rockwood. It expects the facility to provide a consistent supply of the high quality color pigments to North American customers, to strengthen customer service, and to reduce lead time and improve product development potential within the region. Construction of the facility is expected to take place over the next 18 months, with commissioning targeted for the first half of 2013. Following the completion of the new plant, Rockwood will close its St. Louis, Mo., manufacturing facility and part of its Beltsville, Md., facility.