Momentive Invests $13 Million in Italy

Momentive announced a USD 13 million investment in Italy to serve the European polyurethane foam industry. Momentive Performance Materials Inc. announced it will invest USD 13 million to expand its existing facility in Termoli (Italy) to create a state-of-the-art production center for Niax™ polyurethane additives. The facility, which currently produces high-performance additives for rigid foam applications alongside other silicone-based products, will undergo a comprehensive technology upgrade to expand its services to the EU slabstock foam industry.

The modernized facility will provide customers in Europe, Russia and Turkey with full production capacity increases expected by mid-2022. This investment is part of Momentive's broader plans to optimize its global production footprint. Accordingly, a silicone plant in Antwerp, Belgium ceased operations earlier this year as long-term production transfers to the Italy facility.

Dr. Alberto Melle, Global Business Segment Leader for Polyurethane Slabstock Additives, stated: "This investment helps us serve our customers better and expands our commitment to in-region manufacturing and supply, enabling us to deliver high levels of flexibility and consistent, high-quality products." To further emphasize its commitment to serving European customers in the region, Momentive recently established a new customer service support center in Milan (Italy). The transition from a third-party provider to the new center began in October and will be completed by year-end. [caption id="attachment_111681" align="aligncenter"] Dr. Alberto Melle[/caption] V P Nalian, President and General Manager of Momentive's Performance Additives business unit, said: "We continuously seek new ways to improve and develop our production and manufacturing capabilities and capacity to meet our customers' growing needs. These investments position us for long-term sustainable growth and enable us to remain a valued supplier for Europe-based customers seeking a reliable source of additives." In addition to its Termoli (Italy) facility, Momentive serves the polyurethane foam industry through operations in Sistersville, WV (USA), Itatiba (Brazil), Nantong (PRC) and Chennai (India).