TCL Specialties Builds Dual Chemical Plants In West Virginia Using Local Shale Gas

Image Source : ALCHEMPro

Thirumalai Chemicals Ltd’s US subsidiary, TCL Specialties LLC, is nearing completion of two advanced manufacturing facilities in Marshall County, West Virginia. The plants will leverage locally sourced shale gas to produce food ingredients and petrochemicals, marking a major milestone in TCL’s North American expansion.

Facility Overview And Production Scope

- One plant will manufacture 30,000 tons per year of malic and fumaric acids for use in beverages, confectionery, pharmaceuticals, and animal feed
- The second will produce 40,000 tons annually of maleic anhydride, a key input for polymers, coatings, and biodegradable packaging
- Both units are located within the Covestro New Martinsville Industrial Park, offering integrated utilities and logistics access to Europe and Latin America

Technology And Sustainability Features

- Modular construction was executed across India, Europe, Japan, and the US, with 99 percent of modules shipped by March 2025
- The facilities are fully automated and IoT-enabled, allowing real-time monitoring and global support
- Over 90 percent of energy needs will be met through waste heat recovery, significantly reducing emissions
- TCL’s patented low-investment technology ensures cost efficiency and high safety standards

Strategic Outlook

- The USD 200 million Phase I investment is part of a four-phase plan to expand TCL’s specialty materials footprint in the Americas
- Production is expected to begin in Q4 2025, with ramp-up in H1 2026
- The project is expected to create 250 jobs and support regional downstream industries

Sources: WTRF, Indian Chemical News, Machinist.in, AlchemPro, KemicalInfo.