Explosion at Evonik Chemical Plant in Theodore

On Saturday afternoon, an accident at the Evonik chemical plant in Theodore led to the over-pressurization of a railcar, prompting a swift response from local emergency teams.

A large smoke cloud, visible from across Mobile Bay, prompted multiple calls from concerned residents. In response, first responders were swiftly dispatched to the Evonik chemical plant to assess and manage the situation, ensuring safety and addressing the cause of the incident, according to the press release.

By 2:00 p.m., the accident involved a railcar containing hydrogen peroxide. Multiple units from the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department, including a HAZMAT team, were dispatched at 2:36 p.m. to provide support as Evonik worked to stabilize the situation. The company reported that no serious injuries occurred, and only minor first aid was administered on-site. Safety remains Evonik’s top priority, and a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident is underway.

Later updates confirmed that the plant is expected to resume normal operations by Sunday. The Evonik facility in Theodore, which employs approximately 750 people, is the company's largest site in North America. The incident drew significant attention, but thanks to the prompt action of first responders and plant personnel, the situation was contained without major harm.

Evonik continues to focus on maintaining safety standards and is committed to understanding and addressing the factors that led to the accident.

Evonik ranks among the world’s top specialty chemicals companies, with its Mobile site recognized as a world-class chemical manufacturing facility. In 1974, two of Evonik's predecessor companies independently selected this location for their production plants. What began modestly has since grown into Evonik’s largest chemical manufacturing site in North America.

Evonik, headquartered in Germany, conducts business worldwide, with operations in over 100 countries. The company has production plants in 27 countries across six continents and is recognized as one of the leading specialty chemicals companies globally. Evonik has a strong global presence with locations across various regions, including Asia, Australia/Oceania, Central & South America, Europe, the Middle East & Africa, and North America. This extensive network enables the company to deliver specialty chemicals and innovative solutions to customers worldwide, meeting regional needs and supporting global markets.

Evonik operates in over 100 countries globally, generating €15.3 billion in sales and an adjusted EBITDA of €1.66 billion in 2023. The company goes beyond chemistry, delivering innovative, profitable, and sustainable solutions for its customers. With over 33,000 employees, Evonik is dedicated to improving life today and for the future.