Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, opened a second production line for silica-based effect pigments. Approximately 750 employees work at this site, which is home it’s largest pigment production facility worldwide. With this investment, Merck will significantly increase production capacities for silicon dioxide flakes, a special substrate for it’s Colorstream and Xirona product ranges for automotive coatings and color cosmetics. These pigments provide a unique color shift depending on the angle of observation. Especially the volcanic red of Colorstream Lava Red shows an uncompromisingly dynamic color variety in continuous harmony and thus features striking automotive coatings while at the same time fulfil multiple technical requirements, like the ability to withstand the ravages of weather and UV rays.

“Silica-based pigments enable special effects, that are exceptionally well received by our customers and perfectly meet recent market trends,” said Jeff White, head of Surface Solutions at Merck KGaA. “Through this state-of-the-art production facility, we will significantly increase the capacity for silica-based pigments in Gernsheim and flexibility in order to capture these growth opportunities.”

The investment of nearly €28 million in a second silica production line in Gernsheim strengthens the manufacturing site and promotes the unique selling points of silica-based pigments within the global pigment portfolio of the Surface Solutions business unit.