Solvay Inaugurates Alkoxylation Plant in Singapore for Specialty Surfactants

Solvay inaugurated its new large-scale alkoxylation plant in Singapore, the largest plant of its kind in Asia, as part of its global strategy to expand growth of its specialty surfactants in the region. The facility comes on-stream at a time when regional demand for alkoxylates and intermediates used to create Solvay’s specialty surfactants has outstripped supply, especially in dynamic markets such as home & personal care and agrochemicals.

The nearly $50 million “on-pipe” investment will help meet that demand, complementing existing India and Chinese facilities and joining Solvay Novecare’s seven other alkoxylation plants in Europe and North America. Located in the world-class integrated petrochemical hub of Jurong Island, the plant receives a key raw material, ethylene oxide via a dedicated pipeline, and fatty oleochemicals from nearby countries, providing a safe and sustainable source of supply for the near and long term.


The unit produces specialty alkoxylate formulations for the agrochemicals, coatings, home & personal care, industrial and oil & gas markets in Asia, especially for those in key South East Asia countries such as Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia. The plant bolsters Solvay’s competitive position in the region, ensuringthe development of alkoxylate solutionsfor customers who will be supported by strong technical teams from the R&I center located near the plant.

The plant opening coincides with Solvay’s announcement of its expansion of the oil & gas research lab unit at its research and innovation centre in Singapore. The Singapore laboratory focuses on leading global innovation projects in the fields of coatings and home & personal care. It also serves as a regional hub in the development of new sustainable solutions in the agrochemical market. The new oil & gas lab unit confirms the strategic ambition of Solvay Novecarefor this marketin Asia.