Solvay Launches Waste Sand Silica Production in Asia

Solvay, a Belgian supplier, has started producing silica from waste sand at its plants in Qingdao, China, and Gunsan, South Korea, as part of its circular silica strategy. This move is aimed at supporting tire manufacturers’ goal of using 40% circular raw materials by 2030. The company has also launched a bio-circular silica unit in Livorno, Italy, which uses rice husk ash to produce highly dispersible silica for tire applications. Solvay reported silica sales of €515 million for 2025, a 5.1% decrease from the previous year, due to slightly lower tire volumes. The company plans to roll out waste sand-based silica production globally, strengthening its position in sustainable mobility materials.