Evonik is said to be considering a US$27 million expansion of its site in Birmingham, Alabama. The German specialty chemical manufacturer is looking to enlarge its biomaterials business as well as invest in a fill line machine.

The Birmingham Industrial Development Board has voted to abate some of the taxes on the project should Evonik choose to go ahead.

Evonik currently employs some 140 people at its current Birmingham facility, including both permanent and temporary workers. Should the expansion go ahead, it’s likely up to 50 roles will be converted to permanent positions, according to Kel Boisvert, Site Manager at Evonik’s Birmingham laboratories.

Evonik is also thought to be considering sites in Indiana and Germany, and the company is expected to reveal its final decision early next year.