The new line is expected to be operational in the second half of 2026.
In a strategic move to solidify its position as a key provider of high-performance and sustainable materials, Borealis announced a significant investment of over EUR 100 million to expand and upgrade its polypropylene (PP) compounding facilities in Schwechat, Austria. The new production line is slated to begin operations in the second half of 2026, a move that will substantially increase the supply of advanced PP compounds for a variety of industries.
This investment is a direct response to growing market demand and is intended to bolster Borealis' "We4Customers" strategy, which focuses on providing customers with innovative solutions that help them achieve both performance and sustainability objectives. The expansion will increase the company’s capacity to produce tailored materials that are critical for modern applications, particularly those requiring durability, heat resistance, and lightweight properties.
Polymer compounding is a sophisticated process that involves blending plastic resins, such as polypropylene, with various additives, including fiberglass and recycled materials. This blending process creates specialty compounds with precisely engineered properties. The resulting materials are used in a wide range of high-demand sectors, transforming industries and enabling new technological advancements.
In the consumer products and appliances sector, these materials are vital for creating durable and recyclable goods that meet the everyday needs of households. For the mobility industry, the advanced PP compounds are instrumental in the production of lightweight plastics. These materials are crucial for helping to extend the range of electric vehicles (EVs) and for complying with upcoming European Union regulations that mandate a higher content of recycled materials in vehicle components. Furthermore, in infrastructure, these specialty compounds serve as protective outer layers for steel pipes used in high-temperature oil and gas transport, ensuring the integrity and longevity of critical energy infrastructure.
According to Stefan Doboczky, Borealis CEO, the company has cultivated extensive expertise in developing circular solutions over the past decade, which has enabled it to meet and exceed customer expectations for quality and performance. "This project transforms innovation into tangible solutions—bringing our We4Customers strategy to life," Doboczky stated. The increased capacity from the new compounding line will allow Borealis to supply more of the essential materials its customers need, helping them meet their performance targets and move closer to their sustainability goals.
This EUR 100+ million investment in the Schwechat facility represents not just an expansion of production capabilities, but a strong signal of Borealis’s forward-looking approach.
