Munich-based chemical group Wacker is strengthening its presence in India by opening its expanded technical centre for silicone products in Amtala near Kolkata.

Operated by the joint venture Wacker Metroark Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. (WMC), the enlarged regional competence centre now comprises state-of-the-art applications technology and test equipment for silicone products needed in the textiles, personal care and construction industry. The chemical Group is thus responding to the growing demand for silicone products and the emerging needs of regional customers for technical support and expertise. The investment amounts to around half a million Euro.

"By advancing our lab capabilities, we will leverage our local compe-tence to fulfill our customers' needs in the growing regions of India and South East Asia even better", stressed Dr. Christian Hartel,president of Wacker Silicones, during the opening ceremony.