Orion S.A., a specialty chemical company, has announced that its conductive additives plant in Berre-l'Étang, France, has earned the International Automotive Task Force (IATF) certification.

Known as IATF 16949, the certification is a globally recognised quality benchmark for the automotive industry. It confirms that Orion’s facility has established processes to consistently manufacture products that meet the quality requirements of automotive manufacturers.

“Achieving IATF certification demonstrates to our customers that Orion follows internationally recognised quality practices and maintains an ongoing focus on operational excellence,” said Dr Sandra Niewiem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director for Global Specialty Carbon Black and the EMEA Region.

She added that the certification provides automotive customers with confidence in Orion’s systems, controls and processes to meet industry expectations.

To achieve the certification, Orion documented manufacturing processes, conducted audits, addressed operational risks and demonstrated its commitment to continuous improvement.

The Berre-l'Étang facility produces acetylene black, a conductive additive used in lithium-ion batteries, high-voltage wire and cable, tyre bladders and other applications. The plant repurposes acetylene gas, a by-product from a neighbouring facility, and converts it into acetylene black through an upcycling process.

The facility also features a wet-beading unit that pelletises acetylene black powder, making it dust-free and easier to package and process.

Orion’s plants in Huaibei and Qingdao, China, also hold IATF certifications, further strengthening the company’s quality capabilities across its global manufacturing network.

The International Automotive Task Force (IATF) develops and oversees automotive quality standards worldwide. IATF 16949 certifications are awarded by independent accredited bodies approved to conduct certification audits.

Orion S.A. is a global supplier of carbon black, producing materials for applications including tyres, coatings, inks, batteries, plastics and other high-performance industries. The company operates 15 carbon black manufacturing plants worldwide and has four innovation centres focused on developing speciality solutions.