Responding to the strength of the markets it serves, Evonik Corporation said that it will expand its specialty methacrylate monomer facility in Mobile, Ala.

The methyl methacrylate transesterification (MMAT) plant, within Evonik’s Performance Polymers Business Unit and Acrylic Monomers Business Line, will begin a multi-million dollar expansion immediately. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2014.

“This action reflects the strength of the markets supplied by the MMAT plant and a continued confidence in the ability of Evonik’s Mobile site to deliver impressive results to Evonik’s Performance Polymers business,” said Helio Takahashi, president, Evonik Performance Polymers North America.

The expansion will significantly increase the MMAT plant capacity and will require an additional staff of up to six positions.

The monomers produced at the MMAT plant are used in a variety of applications from paint coatings to personal care super absorbers to viscosity modifiers.

For competitive reasons, Evonik does not provide details about the scope of the expansion nor the amount of the investment.

With approximately 750 workers, Evonik Corporation’s Mobile site is one of the area’s largest employers. It manufactures a wide range of products that create the essentials necessary to enjoy a better standard of living today and tomorrow.