LANXESS, a global specialty chemicals company, is expanding rubber processing promoter production at its Bushy Park site in Goose Creek, South Carolina, with new lines expected to start in November 2025. This marks the first time these critical additives will be manufactured domestically in the U.S., previously sourced only from Germany and China. The move aims to reduce logistical costs, improve delivery reliability, and enhance supply security for American buyers in automotive, pharmaceutical, and industrial rubber sectors.
Expansion details and timeline
LANXESS is adding production capacity for rubber processing promoters at its Bushy Park facility in South Carolina. The new lines are scheduled to become operational in November 2025. This investment represents a strategic step to address growing market demand in North America while strengthening the company's regional supply chain.
Products and applications
The South Carolina facility will manufacture widely used processing promoters including Aflux® 37, Aflux® 42, Aktiplast® PP, and the newer Aktiplast® 44. These additives enhance mixing, molding, and vulcanization processes, helping manufacturers achieve higher operational efficiency, better processing speed, and consistent product quality across rubber compounds.
Supply-chain impact
Until now, these processing promoters were produced exclusively in Germany and China and imported to the U.S. market. By localizing production, LANXESS reduces logistical complexities, minimizes transportation costs, and ensures more reliable and timely supply. The Bushy Park site already produces accelerators and peptizers, and this expansion strengthens its role as a comprehensive supplier to the American rubber industry.
What buyers should watch
For U.S. importers and formulators in automotive, pharmaceuticals, and industrial rubber manufacturing, this expansion promises improved delivery times, lower transportation costs, and greater operational flexibility. Roy Varghese, Head of LANXESS Rhein Chemie for the Americas, stated: “With this expansion, we’re helping our U.S. customers reduce transportation costs, improve delivery time and reliability, as well as enhance operational flexibility.” The move reduces dependency on imports and enhances security of supply for critical rubber additives.
Source: Read the original report | Published: September 08, 2025