PQ Announces Plan for New Silicate Furnace at its Georgia, USA Manufacturing Facility

Expansion Will Help Meet Growing Demand for Silicates in Southeastern United States

MALVERN, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--PQ LLC. (www.pqcorp.com), a leading global producer of sodium silicates, specialty silicas, and derivative products, today announced plans to expand its existing Augusta, Georgia-based manufacturing facility with an on-site sodium silicate furnace.

The new, high-efficiency furnace will significantly increase PQ’s production capabilities in the Southeastern United States as well as enhance its broader silicate supply network. The furnace will incorporate technological and engineering enhancements that support PQ’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and deliver on its core value of sustainability.

PQ’s Augusta facility will retain current employment level and is expected to bring new high-quality jobs to the region. The Augusta Economic Development Authority coordinated support for the project.

“The addition of this furnace aligns with our track record of strategically growing our platform to best meet our customers’ growth plans,” commented Al Beninati, President and Chief Executive Officer of PQ. “There continues to be increasing demand for silicates in North America. This investment in our local manufacturing infrastructure will help ensure that our valued customers have the resources to deliver their offerings in a cost-effective, sustainable manner.”

The project, which is expected to be operational by 2025, will expand PQ’s longstanding presence in the Augusta region. Mr. Beninati added: “We have been a proud neighbor in Augusta for more than 58 years. We are excited to expand our strong presence in Georgia with this investment and continue to participate in the growth of this vibrant community.”

Construction of the new furnace is expected to begin in early 2024.

About PQ

With headquarters in Malvern, Pennsylvania PQ is a leading global provider of silicates, silicas and derivative products. PQ’s products are found in a wide variety of industries and many aspects of everyday life, from decorative paints to green cement, from clean drinking water to green tires and from toothpaste to aiding in the production of biofuels and beer. Supported by 1,500 employees across 30 facilities in 13 countries, PQ serves more than 900 customers around the world.

Through its global network of 30 facilities, PQ provides best-in-class product offerings that support a broad range of end uses including silica and chemical manufacturing; paints and coatings; purification, construction and drilling; and personal care, nutrition, and food and beverage.