German specialty chemicals company LANXESS has expanded and upgraded its Rhein Chemie production site in Qingdao, Shandong province, increasing capacity for rubber additives by 50%. This move addresses rising demand from China's tire and industrial rubber sectors, offering overseas buyers improved supply reliability and localized sourcing options for processing promoters and polymer-bound rubber chemicals.
Expansion details
The project includes a 50% capacity increase and technical upgrades for production lines V4 and V8. Line V4 manufactures processing promoters such as Aflux and Aktiplast, while Line V8 produces polymer-bound rubber chemicals including Rhenogran and Rhenoslab. These upgrades aim to enhance operational flexibility and supply reliability for customers in China.
Strategic rationale
Michael Rockel, CEO of LANXESS Greater China, stated: "With this investment, we are strengthening our ability to serve customers in China with high-quality, locally produced solutions. The expansion is driven by strong market demand and aligns with our strategy of local production for the local market." Zhang Lei, head of Sales APAC for Rhein Chemie and general manager of Rhein Chemie (Qingdao) Ltd., added: "The upgrade will enhance supply reliability and operational flexibility for our partners in China. We are reinforcing our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and local value creation."
Product significance
Processing promoters like Aflux and Aktiplast improve mixing, processing, molding, and vulcanization of rubber compounds, helping manufacturers achieve higher efficiency and product quality. Polymer-bound rubber chemicals such as Rhenogran and Rhenoslab ensure uniform distribution and simplify handling, improving safety and consistency in rubber manufacturing. These additives are critical for automotive and industrial rubber products.
China sourcing context
The Qingdao site, established in 1995, has been a key supplier to China's tire and rubber industries for 30 years. It was among the first to introduce polymer-bound rubber chemicals to the Chinese market. In 2021, the site received recognition for an environmentally friendly rubber scrap reclaiming solution. This expansion reinforces LANXESS' commitment to localized production and resilient supply chains for the Chinese market, benefiting overseas buyers seeking reliable regional sources.
Source: Read the original report | Published: November 14, 2025