Lanxess Jhagadia Plant Ready to Supply Tyre Industry Customers

The first phase of construction at the new Lanxess rubber chemical plant in Jhagadia, India has been completed. The German specialty chemicals firm reports production at the Gujarat state facility has begun following a building time of less than two years. The site will now supply India’s growing tyre and rubber industry and export markets with ‘Vulkanox’ brand antioxidants.

Increasing mobility amongst India’s middle class is propelling growth within the country’s tyre market, and manufacturers are responding by expanding production capacity. “The Jhagadia site will become Lanxess’ largest production site in India and highlights our long-term commitment to the growing domestic market as well as our Group’s BRIC strategy,” said Rainier van Roessel, member of the company’s Board of Management. “With the plant, Lanxess stands out as the only Western company to be manufacturing rubber chemicals in India.”

A total investment of approximately 50 million euros in the 13 hectare site will also cover the setting up of a new ion exchange resins plant, which will be engaged in the manufacture of non-tyre related items when it begins production this year. Overall, around 250 people will be employed at the site.

Antioxidants such as Vulkanox protect rubber goods, particularly those made of unsaturated elastomers, from gradual degradation through contact with oxygen, ozone or heat. Vulkanox thus protects rubber from premature material fatigue, brittleness, and the formation of cracks.