Source: Rockwood Holdings Inc., Princeton, N.J.
The Rockwood Color Pigments and Services business will build an advanced technology production facility in Augusta, Ga.—the first new iron oxide pigment operation in the U.S. in 35 years.
“Rockwood is the only global iron oxide supplier with production capabilities in North America,” says Rockwood Performance Additives President Andrew Ross. ‘We are making this investment to deploy significant recent advancements in our proven pigment technology. [It] is further evidence of our commitment to strengthen regional manufacturing capability to support our customers.”
“Construction of this facility enables us to consolidate our operations in the U.S., improve product quality and reduce our dependence on imported raw material for [pigment] production,” adds Rockwood Holdings Chairman Seifi Ghasemi. “In addition, it reflects our confidence in the future growth of the U.S. economy.”
Rockwood expects the $115 million facility to provide a consistent supply of the highest quality color pigments to North American customers, strengthen customer service, reduce lead time, and improve product development potential within the region. The company has targeted opening of the operation for the first half of 2013, projecting a payroll of 80 to 100. Following the completion of the Augusta line, Rockwood will close its St. Louis pigment operation and part of its Beltsville, Md., plant.