Malvern-based PQ LLC., a sodium silicates, specialty silicas and derivative products producer, plans to expand its Augusta, Ga., manufacturing facility.
The company plans to install a high-efficiency sodium silicate furnace that incorporates technological and engineering enhancements to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The furnace will allow the company to significantly increase production in the Southeast and enhance its broader silicate supply network.
“The addition of this furnace aligns with our track record of strategically growing our platform to best meet our customers’ growth plans,” Al Beninati, PQ president and CEO, said. “There continues to be increasing demand for silicates in North America. This investment in our local manufacturing infrastructure will help ensure that our valued customers have the resources to deliver their offerings in a cost-effective, sustainable manner.”
Construction will begin early next year, and the furnace is expected to be operational by 2025.
The facility will retain its current employment level.
The Augusta Economic Development Authority coordinated support for the project.
PQ operates 30 facilities in 13 countries, employs 1,500 people and has more than 900 customers worldwide. The company’s products have multiple end uses including construction and drilling, food and beverage, nutrition, paints and coatings, personal care, purification, and silica and chemical manufacturing.