Orion Clean Carbon Black Project Advances Sustainable Production
Orion S.A., a global leader in specialty chemicals, is investing €12.8 million in its new Clean Carbon Black Project. The initiative aims to develop and demonstrate a climate-neutral process for producing carbon black—a key material used in wire, cable, and tire manufacturing—from alternative carbon sources.
The project highlights Orion’s commitment to advancing sustainable production methods and driving innovation that supports a circular economy across the materials industry.
Orion Expands Research Facilities in Cologne
To support this initiative, Orion is constructing a new research facility at its main innovation center in Cologne, Germany. The facility will serve as a testing ground for the company’s new process technology.
This technology is designed to improve yield and throughput during carbon black production by using circular feedstocks. As a result, Orion expects to significantly cut the carbon footprint of its operations. This innovation also addresses the growing demand for sustainable raw materials, especially in the tire and mobility sectors.
Funding Boosts the Orion Clean Carbon Black Project
Half of the €12.8 million investment will come from Germany’s Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action through its decarbonization program. The EU’s NextGenerationEU fund will also support the project, reinforcing its alignment with Europe’s long-term sustainability goals.
“We are grateful for the funding from both the EU and the German government,” said Orion CEO Corning Painter. “Their support demonstrates a strong commitment to innovation and building a circular economy.”
Driving Progress Toward Climate-Neutral Carbon Black
With the Orion Clean Carbon Black Project, the company continues leading the shift toward eco-efficient industrial processes. By transforming carbon black production and integrating renewable feedstocks, Orion aims to enhance environmental performance while delivering high-quality specialty materials to global markets.
