Momentive Performance Materials Inc., a global leader in silicones and advanced materials, has announced that it will invest US$13 million for the expansion of its existing Termoli (Italy) plant to create a state-of-the-art manufacturing hub for its Niax polyurethane additives.

The site, which currently produces high performance additives for rigid foam applications among other silicone-based products, will undergo a comprehensive technology upgrade to expand services to the EU slabstock foam industry.

Momentive is one of the global leaders in silicones and advanced materials.

The modernized facility will supply customers in Europe, Russia and Turkey with full production ramp-up expected by the middle of 2022. This investment is part of Momentive’s broader plans to optimize its global manufacturing footprint, whereby a silicone plant in Antwerp, Belgium, ceased operations earlier this year with long-term manufacturing shifting to the Italy plant.

“This investment expands our commitment to in-region manufacturing and supply, which will help us to serve our customers even better - providing a high level of flexibility and consistent, high quality products,” said Dr. Alberto Melle´, Global Business Segment Leader for Polyurethane Slabstock Additives.

Also, Momentive has recently established a new customer service support center in Milan (Italy). The transition from a third-party supplier to the new center began in October and will be completed by year’s end.

“These investments position us for long-term sustainable growth and enable us to remain a valued supplier to those European-based customers who are seeking a trusted source of additives,” added VP Nalian, President and General Manager for Momentive’s Performance Additives business unit.