Solstice Advanced Materials announced plans to invest more than $220 million to expand its existing ballistic fiber manufacturing facility in Colonial Heights, Chesterfield County, Virginia. The company said the investment will create 100 new full-time jobs by 2029 and increase capacity for Spectra and Spectra Shield technologies. Construction and equipment installation are expected to occur between 2025 and 2029, with operational benefits ramping through a projected completion date of September 30, 2030.
What it means
The expansion adds new fiber spinning, composite coating, and analytical capabilities to the Colonial Heights plant, which has produced Spectra fiber and composite materials for over two decades. Solstice said the upgrade increases capacity for its ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers, which are up to 15 times stronger than steel and 65% lighter than aramid fabrics. These materials are used in helmets, vests, vehicle armor, naval applications, and industrial settings.
The project is supported by state incentives. Governor Glenn Youngkin approved a $1.5 million grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund and a $2 million performance-based Virginia Investment Performance (VIP) Grant. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership and Chesterfield County facilitated the support. David Sewell, President and CEO of Solstice Advanced Materials, said the investment underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining technology leadership in high-performance protective materials and strengthening U.S.-based manufacturing for defense-critical supply chains.
Key facts
- $220 million: Total investment amount announced by Solstice Advanced Materials
- 100 jobs: New full-time positions expected by 2029
- Colonial Heights, Virginia: Location of the existing facility being expanded
- 2025–2029: Expected period for construction and equipment installation
- Sept. 30, 2030: Projected completion date for operational benefits ramp-up
- $1.5 million: Grant approved from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund
- $2 million: Performance-based Virginia Investment Performance (VIP) Grant approved
- Spectra and Spectra Shield: Technologies receiving capacity increases
Source: Solstice Advanced Materials news release (PR Newswire)