AGC to Increase Production Capacity of Eco-Friendly Fine Silica Used in Cosmetics Formulations

EXTON, Pa., August 30, 2023 – AGC subsidiary AGC-Si-Tech Co., Ltd., will increase production capacity of RESIFA™ SOLESPHERE™ fine silica used in cosmetics. This environmentally friendly material comes from natural sources, making it an ideal alternative to microplastics, which damage the ecosystem. The company’s Wakamatsu-Ward plant in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka, Japan, will expand to increase production capacity by approximately 1.5 times that of the current level and is expected to be online in the second quarter of 2025. AGC Chemicals Americas markets RESIFA™ SOLESPHERE™ fine silica microspheres in the Americas.

RESIFA SOLESPHERE is a cosmetic material made from natural silica processed into a spherical shape using the company’s unique manufacturing process. Cosmetic manufacturers worldwide have been using this material since its launch in 1990. These fine silicas are highly regarded for their ability to enhance the performance of cosmetics, such as reducing greasiness and stickiness, providing blurring effects on wrinkles and imperfections due to their ability to scatter light, providing a smooth and lightweight feeling and enabling a mattifying effect due to their exceptional oil absorption properties.

“This expansion allows AGC to maintain a consistent supply of high-quality silica products for the foreseeable future,” said Michael Sweeney, Fine Silica Business Director for AGC Chemicals Americas, Inc.  “The boost in production will not only back our distribution agreements and help us develop customer formulations, but also strengthen our commitment to sustainability.”

The AGC Group has set “promoting sustainability management” as a key strategy in its medium-term management plan, AGC plus-2023, and is committed to contributing to solving social issues through materials innovation. The Group will continue to contribute to the realization of a sustainable global environment through the expansion of silica products that help to reduce environmental risk.

For information, visit the RESIFA™ SOLESPHERE™ fine silica webpage.

About AGC Chemicals Americas Inc.

AGC Chemicals Americas is a global subsidiary of AGC Inc., a multinational corporation and one of the world’s largest manufacturers of glass, electronic displays and chemical products. Headquartered in Exton, Pennsylvania, including a state-of-the-art technology center, AGC Chemicals Americas maintains manufacturing operations in nearby Thorndale, Pennsylvania, a satellite sales office in Guaratinguetá, Brazil, and warehouses located throughout North America. www.agcchem.com

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