Ahlstrom, a global leader in fiber-based specialty materials, announces the expansion of its Ahlstrom ECOTM filtration media production capacity to Europe, strengthening its ability to support automotive OEM and aftermarket customers in their transition toward more sustainable filtration solutions. After a first generation developed in our Louveira (Brazil) plant, production is now available at Ahlstrom's Turin (Italy) plant.
Driven by increasingly stringent emissions regulations and the ongoing transformation of the transportation sector, filtration solutions are expected to deliver both high performance and improved environmental profiles. OEMs and filter manufacturers are accelerating efforts to reduce their environmental footprint, while ensuring uncompromised efficiency across applications such as engine air, oil, and fuel filtration.
Ahlstrom ECOTM filtration media addresses these challenges through the integration of lignin, a renewable by-product from the pulp industry. By replacing about 30% of traditional fossil-based phenolic resin, Ahlstrom ECOTM reduces reliance on non-renewable materials while maintaining excellent filtration performance, including efficiency and durability in hot oil conditions.
In addition to its sustainability benefits, Ahlstrom ECO™ offers strong mechanical properties fully compatible with existing pleating and filter manufacturing processes. The solution also contributes to safer operations with reduced formaldehyde emissions between 40-70%* during curing level, helping customers meet stricter environmental and occupational health requirements. Flame-retardant options are available, and the technology supports reliable global supply and industrial scalability.
"With Ahlstrom ECOTM, we are demonstrating that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand," said Stéphanie Pigeot-Rémy, Head of Global R&D and Product Development, Filtration at Ahlstrom. "Expanding production to Europe enables us to better serve our customers locally while supporting their journey toward more sustainable filtration solutions without compromise."
For more information, please contact: Stéphanie Pigeot- Rémy, Head of Global R&D and Product Development, stephanie.pigeot-remy@ahlstrom.com
*Based on internal testing using the VDA 275 method, compared to a standard phenolic reference formulation. Actual results may vary depending on product grade, processing and end-use conditions.
