Solvay (Brussels / Belgium; www.solvay.com) is adding a new production line for thermoplastic composites at its facility in Anaheim, California / USA to meet strong demand growth from the aerospace industry. With the new capacity, along with upgrades to existing lines, Solvay said it will have multiplied its capacity fourfold since 2016.

The company did not give capacity details or say when the new line will go into operation. It did add, however, that the expansions aimed to not only improve output but also quality, consistency and industrial reliability.

In May 2019, the Belgian group announced it had created its first strategic platform to accelerate the development of thermoplastic composites and leverage its “unmatched portfolio and expertise in speciality polymers and carbon fibre composites.”

The materials are used in lightweighting applications to reduce emissions in cars and aeroplanes, replacing heavier metal parts. Other applications are pipes in the oil and gas industry, where Solvay said they are a strong and cost-effective alternative to steel.