Yidu accelerates construction of high-end chemical project

By Chen Zai

Construction is accelerating on Hubei Silicone Energy New Materials’ new project, which will produce 10,000 metric tons of silicone products and 500 metric tons of high-end lubricants and coolants annually.

 Rendering of the new project of Hubei Silicone Energy New Materials Co., Ltd., located in Yidu Chemical Industrial Park.

Backed by an investment of 250 million yuan (US$37.04 million), the project is located within the Yidu Chemical Industrial Park. It spans a total area of 73 mu (4.87 hectares). Construction began late last year , with civil works expected to finish by this September and trial production by year-end. 

The project focuses on organosilicon products and perfluoropolyether (PFPE).

Organosilicon materials resist extreme temperatures and weathering, and provide electrical insulation. Processed into oils, rubbers, and resins, they are widely used in construction, automotive, electronics, healthcare, personal care, textiles, and new energy.

PFPE is a high-performance synthetic lubricant and coolant, operating from −80°C to 300°C with exceptional chemical stability. It is widely used in fields such as semiconductors, aerospace, and precision instruments, supporting Yichang’s goal of becoming a major computing hub.

Currently, the mass-production technology of PFPE is mastered by a few global companies, forcing China to rely heavily on imports. “Once operational, the project will achieve a domestic breakthrough for this critical material,” said Yan Yong, the project’s equipment manager.

In addition, the raw materials needed — DMC (dimethylcyclosiloxane) for organosilicon and PFPE essentials — can be sourced from Xingfa Group and other local companies. This will cut logistics costs, stabilize raw material supply, and enable close coordination across the industry chain.

Reporters Fang Yonghua and Sun Yumin contributed to this story.