News and Articles

• Cabot Sanmar to expand fumed silica capacity at Mettur facility
• Rs 220 crore investment planned for brownfield expansion project
• New unit expected to be operational by fourth quarter of 2027
• Expansion targets rising demand across pharma, coatings and personal care sectors
• Move aimed at strengthening domestic supply of specialty chemical inputs

Cabot Sanmar has moved to increase its production capacity for fumed silica in India, signalling confidence in rising domestic demand across multiple industrial segments. The joint venture between US-based Cabot Corporation and India’s Sanmar Group has begun work on a brownfield expansion at its existing facility in Mettur in Tamil Nadu’s Salem district.

The project involves an investment of about Rs 220 crore, equivalent to roughly USD 25 million, and is scheduled for completion in the final quarter of 2027. The foundation stone for the new unit was laid at a ceremony attended by senior leadership from both partner companies, marking the formal start of construction.

The expansion is aimed at strengthening supply of fumed silica products under the CAB-O-SIL brand, which are used in a wide range of industries including pharmaceuticals, food processing, paints and coatings, adhesives, personal care and agricultural inputs. Demand for these materials has been rising in line with growth in specialty chemicals and advanced manufacturing sectors in India.

By adding new capacity at its Mettur site, the company is positioning itself to serve domestic customers more efficiently while reducing dependence on imports. The move also aligns with broader industry trends, as manufacturers scale up local production to support supply chains and respond to increasing consumption in end-use industries.

The decision reflects expectations of sustained growth in applications that rely on high-performance additives, particularly in sectors where consistency and product quality are critical. With commissioning still more than a year away, the project gives Cabot Sanmar time to align production capabilities with future market needs.