Evonik to expand capacity for Vestosint polyamide 12 powder in Marl

The projected expansion is part of Evonik’s strategy to “solidify Evonik’s leading position as a provider of polyamide 12-based high performance polymers,” as Dr. Ralph Sven Kaufmann, Chief Operating Officer of Evonik phrased it.

“The planned investment in the new polyamide 12 powder facility represents the next step in our growth strategy,” he said. The expanded capacity will also enable Evonik to utilize the growth potential of new application areas for these polymers.

Evonik’s Resource Efficiency segment, responsible for high performance materials for environmentally friendly and energy-efficient systems to the automotive, paints & coatings, adhesives, construction, and several other industries, is a leading producer of polyamide 12 powders, which are sold under the brand name Vestosint.

The powders are used, for example, to coat metals for household appliances such as dishwasher baskets, but also in automotive and medical technology production and as matting and structural agents in coatings.

Tool-free production–especially in the 3D printing industry–is another area that is expected to drive demand for these powders.

“We project attractive market growth. The new production line in Marl will meet the growing demand for PA12 powder products in the long term to support our customers’ growth,” said Dr. Claus Rettig, the Chairman of the Board of Management of Evonik Resource Efficiency GmbH.

PA12 powders are particularly suitable for use in powder-based 3D printing processes, such as selective laser sintering (SLS) and high-speed sintering (HSS), due to their mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and the high melting point of finished products. 

Fiber composite materials are another potential growth area. Polyamide 12 powders are an ideal matrix for thermoplastic composites made of fiberglass, carbon fibers, and aramid or steel fibers. These materials offer opportunities for applications in the automotive and oil drilling industry, the sports sector and in orthopedics.

Vestosint is a modified PA12 powder that is manufactured from a polyamide granulate, using a proprietary Evonik process.