Solvay Inaugurates Europe's First Bio-Circular Silica Production Plant in Italy

Solvay, the Brussels-based group, has officially inaugurated a new bio-circular silica production unit at its Livorno plant in Italy. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the European industry's transition toward sustainable development. This investment not only positions Solvay as an active partner in achieving the goals of the European Green Deal and the upcoming Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), but also further consolidates Italy's industrial standing as a hub for green innovation.

The new production unit manufactures bio-based sodium silicate from the agricultural byproduct rice husk ash, which is used to produce highly dispersible silica (HDS). This breakthrough process reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 35% per ton of silica produced compared to traditional production methods, while also creating a local circular value chain that benefits agriculture, industry, and local communities.

"Solvay’s current strategic positioning is helping tire manufacturers prepare for future EU regulatory requirements while supporting them in achieving their own sustainability goals," said Philippe Kehren, CEO of Solvay. "The Livorno production site is a living example of how we translate circular economy concepts into industrial reality, an achievement that will empower the development of future generations."

Jana Striezel, purchasing manager at Continental Tires, stated: "Solvay has successfully industrialized agricultural by-products into high-performance materials. We look forward to incorporating more recycled rice husk ash silica into tire production and are very satisfied with its performance. We highly value innovative, renewable, and recycled materials, as they strongly support us in achieving our ambitious sustainability roadmap."

The launch of this new facility is a key component of Solvay's global circular silica strategy. According to this strategy, Solvay plans to complete the upgrade of all its silica production sites worldwide by 2026, using raw materials that are all certified by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC® PLUS). The Livorno plant, as the world's first production site using rice husk ash as a raw material, has a unique position. Other production sites in the group will adapt to local conditions and utilize various local industrial waste materials as raw materials. By using Solvay's circular silica, tire manufacturers can immediately increase the proportion of recycled or renewable materials in their tire products to 15%, laying a solid foundation for achieving their target of 40% by 2030.

An Nuyttens, President of Solvay Silica, said: "The Livorno site sets a benchmark for circular economy innovation in Europe and globally. Our goal is clear: all Solvay silica production sites will integrate circular raw material systems to reduce environmental impact and help customers achieve their sustainability goals."

The inauguration of this production base further consolidates Solvay’s leadership in the field of silica for energy-efficient tires. This material is essential for lowering rolling resistance, reducing fuel consumption, and extending the driving range of electric vehicles. At the same time, combined with Solvay’s significant investments in green hydrogen and circular soda ash solutions, this move highlights Italy’s strategic core position within Solvay’s global sustainability roadmap.