CHENNAI, Tamil Nadu – Pandian Chemicals Limited (PCL) a leading manufacturer of specialty chemicals, has inaugurated its third perchlorate manufacturing facility at the SIPCOT Industrial Estate in Thervoy Kandigai, near Chennai. The new plant, established with an investment of ₹48 crore, will significantly enhance the production of a critical component for India’s defence and space programs.
The facility will primarily focus on manufacturing Ammonium Perchlorate (APC) a key oxidizer used in the production of solid propellant for defence missiles and space launch vehicles.
Strengthening National Security and Self-Reliance
The strategic importance of this new plant lies in its contribution to India’s defence preparedness and the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative. By increasing the domestic supply of APC, PCL reduces the nation’s dependence on imports for this strategically vital material.
The new plant has an installed capacity of 40 metric tonnes per month and is designed with the potential to double its output in the near future to meet the growing demand from the defence and aerospace sectors.
A Synergistic Contribution to Defence
PCL’s promoter company, MEPCO, is India’s largest manufacturer of non-ferrous metal powders, including specialized aluminium powders. Aluminium powder is another essential ingredient in solid fuel motors. Together, PCL and MEPCO provide two of the most critical components required for missile propellant, creating a synergistic and secure supply chain for India’s strategic sectors.
PCL, originally established as a joint sector company with the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO), is also India’s largest producer of Potassium Chlorate, a key raw material for the safety match industry.