Evonik Adds Capabilities to Develop Specialty PU Additives with New Essen Innovation Center

Evonik has further expanded its position in the polyurethane (PU) industry with a new state-of-the-art laboratory and innovation facility at its Essen Goldschmidt site in Germany, which was inaugu-rated at the end of October.

The new 400-square-meter laboratory will enhance the group’s development capabilities for high-performance specialty PU additives and processing aids for a variety of PU applications. The focus is on high-growth application areas such as the production of sustainable artificial leather, low emission catalysts for high-quality coatings and adhesives, performance additives for making PU shoe soles more durable and comfortable, and emission optimized release agents for molded foams and elastomers.

“Our new laboratory and innovation center sends a strong signal to the market and reinforces our strategy to not only be the leading, but also the most innovative, solutions provider to the PU in-dustry,” said Ralph Marquardt, head of Evonik’s PU additives business.

“The new facility’s state-of-the-art equipment enables our team to work efficiently and safely on developing new additive solutions and bring them to market much quicker,” said Matt Aldag, head of Evonik’s Advanced PU business.