Sasol International Chemicals announced it will commit €60 million to expand alumina production at its Brunsbüttel plant in Germany. The capital will be directed toward increasing capacity at the existing alumina facilities with a focus on spherical alumina supports used in advanced catalyst systems and related applications.
The company said it has secured the required construction approvals and has already initiated procurement activities. Sasol expects to select a general contractor in June, and the expanded operations are planned to commence around 2029.
Stefan Maedje, head of Advanced Materials for Sasol's International Chemicals business, framed the investment as a capability enhancement. "This investment is about scaling and sharpening the capabilities that differentiate Sasol in advanced materials and specialty chemicals," he said. "By expanding our advanced alumina production and enhancing process performance, we are reinforcing our role as a reliable, technology‑driven partner for customers in critical applications where performance and continuity of supply are non‑negotiable."
The scope of the project includes energy optimization measures and process improvements. Sasol said these initiatives are expected to reduce the product carbon footprint by up to 15% per ton compared with the plant's current production levels.
Output from the enlarged facility will include high‑purity and ultra‑high‑purity aluminas for customers that demand specialized materials for catalyst and process technologies. Maedje reiterated the strategic intent of the spend, calling it "a targeted, disciplined growth investment in an established advanced materials platform." He added, "It enhances our ability to support customers who require high‑purity and ultra‑high‑purity aluminas and specialty materials for the next generation of catalyst and process technologies."
Operational timeline and current status
Sasol has moved past permit stages and entered procurement. The company has set a near‑term milestone of selecting a general contractor in June, and it forecasts that the upgraded production capacity will be operational around 2029.
Product and market focus
The expansion concentrates on spherical alumina supports and high‑purity alumina grades used in advanced catalyst systems and other specialized process technologies. Sasol frames the investment as reinforcing its technology‑driven supply role for customers in sectors where material performance and supply continuity are critical.
Note on statements - The carbon footprint reduction and timing are presented by Sasol as expectations and plans; actual outcomes will depend on project execution and future developments.