Balancing performance, scale and circularity to guarantee recyclability in the future

Of all the companies involved in composite applications, Aditya Birla’s Advanced Materials division is the one that is most closely engaged with the industry. The division sells resins and solutions for a variety of applications, including automotive, sporting goods, electronics and wind energy sectors. The second most important sector is the insulator and construction industry with composite rebars. Around 35-40% of the Advanced Materials division’s international revenue comes from composites applications, mainly due to the resins business. Aditya Birla is also a leading player in the wind industry, holding around 80% of the Indian market.

Rajesh Balakrishnan explains: “We have a strong position in wind energy, and it is a growing industry for us. In India, we currently have around 50 GW of wind energy capacity. According to the road map set out by the Indian government, this capacity is expected to reach 100 GW by 2030. We have various ongoing business relationships with major wind OEMs, including Suzlon, GE and INOX.” Rajesh also sees strong opportunities for the recyclability of wind blades because many countries are restricting landfills and prioritising recyclability. “In the coming years, 10,000 to 15,000 wind turbines reaching the end of their life will pose a disposal problem. We expect to be able to guarantee recyclability in the future.”

Pressure vessels, automotive and sporting goods

Pressure vessels are another promising business area for Aditya Birla Chemicals, alongside the automotive and sporting goods industries, where recyclability is expected to become a key requirement.

Cover photo: Pressure vessels are a promising business area © Aditya Birla Group

Read the full article on page 19 of issue 168 of JEC Composites Magazine.