Orion Expands Circular Carbon Black Production to China — Orion Engineered Carbons S.A.

Event summary

Orion S.A. has begun producing circular carbon black at its ISCC PLUS-certified plant in Qingdao, China.
The facility produces three grades (ECORAX® Circular 200, 210, and 215) from tire pyrolysis oil (TPO).
ECORAX® 200 is designed for tires, while 210 and 215 can be used for tires and mechanical rubber goods (MRG).
Orion previously scaled up circular production in Europe with a commercial reactor in Jasło, Poland.
The company claims to be the first carbon black producer to make carbon black with 100% TPO.

The big picture

Orion's move into circular carbon black production in China aligns with the growing demand for sustainable materials in the tire and rubber industries. The company's ability to produce multiple grades from TPO positions it as a leader in the circular economy, potentially influencing industry standards and regulatory frameworks. The strategic expansion follows Orion's earlier investments in Europe, indicating a global push toward sustainable supply chains.

What we're watching

Market Adoption: How quickly tire manufacturers will integrate circular carbon black into their supply chains.
Regulatory Compliance: Whether ISCC PLUS certification will become a standard requirement for sustainable materials.
Global Expansion: The pace at which Orion will expand its circular production capabilities to other regions.