Dow Announces Expansion of Global Specialty Silicones Capacity

Dow is investing $100 million to expand its global specialty silicones manufacturing and innovation capabilities. The investment involves facilities in the United States, China, and Japan and includes both liquid silicone rubber (LSR) and engineered silicone materials. This expansion aligns with Dow’s efforts to shorten commercialization timelines and strengthen supply chain resilience.

Major LSR Capacity Expansions

Dow is increasing global LSR production to meet rising demand in transportation, electronics, and medical applications. By the end of 2027, the company will add new LSR capacity at Carrollton, Kentucky (USA), and Zhangjiagang, China. RDAbbott supports Dow LSR customers with material selection, application development, processing support, and innovation collaboration.

Growth in Engineered Silicone Materials

Dow is also expanding production of engineered silicone materials used in semiconductor packaging, power electronics, and thermal management systems. New projects in Songjiang, China, and Fukui, Japan, are scheduled to come online this year, with additional expansions planned for Auburn, Michigan, and Zhangjiagang in 2027.

Enhanced Global Innovation Capabilities

Dow’s announcement of this $100-million investment follows its recent expansion of Cooling Science Labs in Shanghai, China, and Midland, Michigan (USA). These labs support applications in electric mobility, data centers, microelectronics, and medical devices. The expansion will complete a series of silicones investments that Dow announced at its Investor Day in 2024.