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Imerys Graphite & Carbon is targeting batteries and polymers, describing its Willebroek expansion as a "significant investment". The company has also reinforced its commitment to its Lac des Iles mine.
Europe's largest graphite materials producer, Imerys Graphite & Carbon, has doubled production capacity of conductive carbon black at its facility in Willebroek, Belgium, following a significant investment over 12 months.
A new production line has now been successfully put into operation which, according to Hugues Jacquemin, vice president and general manager of Imerys Graphite & Carbon, enables the company to service growing demand for lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries and polymers.
"Demand has increased significantly over the past few years and in order to meet that demand, we've had to double our capacity at Willebroek," Jacquemin told IM at the plant opening.
Jacquemin explained that the expansion has taken place over one year and has involved a "significant investment in excess of EUR 20m ($25m*)".
The Willebroek facility is not very labour intensive, however the company has added 14 more staff positions following the expansion.
Carbon black is an essential component of Li-ion batteries but is also used in plastics and rubber applications. It is used to prevent electrical discharge, to preserve the activity of electronic components, to allow further treatment and to transport electricity safely.
Energy storage
Imerys has further announced that it has been selected by the Japanese Ministry...