Weston, MI – Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer kicked-off her investment mission in California by announcing that Silbond Corporation, a producer of chemicals for the fabrication of semiconductors, is expanding its operations in Lenawee County. Silbond is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Germany-based specialty chemicals company Evonik.
The expansion will allow the company to manufacture new products, including high-purity abrasives and market them to manufacturers of liquid abrasive slurries which are in the production of microchips. The project is expected to generate a total capital spending of $7.9 million in 2023 and 2024 and create three jobs and will further build on the state’s work to position itself as the global leader in the semiconductor supply chain.
“The new plant makes an important contribution to the strategic development of our portfolio,” said Peter Friesenhahn, head of Evonik’s Silanes business line. “We are strengthening our offering for attractive, technology-driven growth markets and positioning ourselves as an innovation partner for our customers.”
Silbond produces chemicals that are used in the semiconductor industry as well as other chemicals that act as binders and are used in corrosion-resistant coatings, aerogel insulation and investment castings. Silbond currently employs 36 Michigan residents at its Fairfield facility.
The expansion of Silbond’s plant in Weston is supported by a $900,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Michigan was chosen for the project over competing sites in other states due to experience in producing high purity chemicals, the talented workforce and proximity to the company’s existing and potential customers.
The project will bring immediate, high-wage jobs within a large and expanding manufacturing company and is also expected to be a catalyst for the semiconductor industry’s continued growth in the state.
Lenawee Now has offered support in the form of staff, financial, and economic support. “Lenawee Now is excited about the announcement of the expansion of Silbond Corp in Lenawee County,” said Lenawee Now Executive Director Patrick Farver. “This is the result of hard work by many and brings an exciting opportunity for further growth and collaboration. Working closely with Evonik on this expansion not only strengthens our local economy, but also creates a significant number of high-paying new jobs. This expansion is a testament to the thriving business environment in Lenawee County, and we look forward to continuing to support Silbond as they continue to grow.”
Governor Whitmer’s mission is the second trip to California she’s taken since being in office. In December 2019, the governor spent two days in Silicon Valley, where she met with tech and mobility companies to build relationships, promote business investment and grow talent opportunities in Michigan.
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