Borregaard and Sappi announced this week that they have decided to increase the lignin production capacity by 20,000 metric tons at LignoTech South Africa.

The added volume will be marketed to the joint venture company's existing applications and geographical markets. The investment by LignoTech is estimated at approximately US $8.5 million, and the project is expected to be completed in 2017.

Commenting on the decision, Per Arthur Sørlie, President and CEO of Borregaard said: "It is a strategic priority for Borregaard to grow our lignin business. This investment will strengthen LignoTech South Africa's competitive position, and improve our offering to key markets in Asia, The Middle East and Africa."

Steve Binnie, CEO of Sappi Limited, said: "Looking to the future, Sappi is targeting strong growth from new business opportunities related to energy, nanocellulose and bio products including lignin and sugars. This expansion is an important vote of confidence in our joint venture with Borregaard and the global competitiveness of South Africa-based LignoTech."

LignoTech South Africa is a joint venture for the manufacture of lignin products owned by Borregaard (50%) and Sappi (50%). The company/ plant was established in 1997 in KwaZulu Natal and the capacity has been gradually expanded over time. The new investment will increase the installed capacity to approximately 180,000 metric tonnes dry substance per year. Borregaard provides the joint venture with sales and marketing functions in overseas export markets, in addition to technology, research and development functions. Sappi supplies lignin raw material and utilities from Sappi's Saiccor Mill.

The products from LignoTech South Africa go into a wide range of applications such as industrial dust control, concrete admixtures, feed and agrochemicals.