Evonik Makes Rohacell foam production at Darmstadt Site More Environmentally Friendly

Evonik has upgraded the production process for its high-performance ROHACELL foam at its Darmstadt, Germany facility to rely exclusively on electricity from renewable sources. This shift will reduce CO2 emissions by 3,400 metric tons annually for Evonik’s High Performance Polymers division.

Dr. Werner Escher, head of the Foams & PEEK product line, stated, “Sustainability is a crucial element of our growth strategy in Evonik’s High Performance Polymers division. By lowering the carbon footprint of our ROHACELL foams, we are making a significant move toward our goal of delivering more eco-friendly solutions to our customers.”

The Darmstadt facility’s ROHACELL production is powered by green electricity secured through green electricity certificates and special supply agreements known as Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Utilizing only renewable energy for production helps reduce emissions, enabling Evonik’s ROHACELL customers to enhance the sustainability of their own products.

Evonik aims to generate more than 50% of its sales from “Next Generation Solutions” by 2030. Products like ROHACELL are key to this goal, offering significant environmental benefits. ROHACELL is a rigid polymethacrylimide foam known for its lightweight, high-temperature, and high-pressure resistance. It is highly valued in various high-tech industries, including aerospace, electronics, medical technology, transportation, and sports equipment.

ROHACELL serves as an ideal core material for composite structures, making it perfect for high-speed trains and electric vehicles. Its strength and reduced weight contribute to improved efficiency and lower carbon emissions in end products. By transitioning to green energy for ROHACELL production, Evonik is reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and enhancing the environmental performance of its products.

Evonik is a prominent player in the specialty chemicals sector with operations spanning more than 100 countries. In 2023, the company reported sales of €15.3 billion and an adjusted EBITDA of €1.66 billion. Evonik’s focus extends beyond traditional chemistry to deliver innovative, profitable, and sustainable solutions for its customers. The company employs more than 33,000 people worldwide. Evonik, a pioneering industrial group headquartered in Germany, stands among the world’s top specialty chemicals companies. The company’s corporate strategy centers on specializing in niche markets, fostering customer-focused innovation, and maintaining a culture of trust and high performance. Evonik leverages its close customer relationships and strong market positions to its advantage.

The Smart Materials division includes companies that create advanced materials aimed at offering resource-efficient solutions and replacing conventional materials. These innovations address key contemporary challenges such as environmental concerns, energy efficiency, urbanization, mobility, and health. In 2023, the division achieved sales of €4.46 billion and employed over 8,100 people.