About Us
In the realm of materials, carbon fiber has emerged as a powerhouse collaborator, known for its ability to enhance other materials and propel them to new heights of performance. At ZOLTEK, we see ourselves embracing a similar role.
Overview
At our core, we aim to spearhead the widespread adoption of carbon fiber as a primary composite material in various industries. Our mission is to empower others to reach unprecedented levels of performance in their products. Carbon fiber reinforced composites boast exceptional properties such as high strength, low weight, stiffness, corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and electrical conductivity.
One of carbon fiber’s standout features is its versatility. It seamlessly integrates with a diverse array of materials, including various fibers, plastics, metals, wood, and concrete. This versatility fuels endless possibilities for enhancing performance and reducing life-cycle costs across a broad spectrum of consumer and industrial applications, as well as in construction projects.
ZOLTEK has earned its place as the global leader in carbon fiber production capacity by pioneering a proprietary continuous carbonization process that delivers high-performance carbon fiber at a low cost. Armed with this expertise, we are poised to drive demand across multiple industries, revolutionizing the way carbon fiber is utilized.
Our History
Beginnings
ZOLTEK was founded in 1975 by Mr. Zsolt Rumy in St. Louis, Missouri.
Enter Carbon Fiber Business
ZOLTEK enters the carbon fiber business with an acquisition in 1988, focusing on high-priced, low volume aerospace applications.
Initial Public Offering
ZOLTEK's initial public offering occurred in 1992. Our IPO raised $4 million, and we used most of that to build our first continuous carbonization line for the textile-type precursor.
Magyar Viscosa Purchase
Using the proceeds of the secondary stock offering, ZOLTEK purchased Magyar Viscosa, a Hungarian producer of acrylic and other fibers for the European textile market, giving us further means to drive costs and price while ensuring a supply of raw materials to meet increasing demand.
Stocks Soar
As ZOLTEK completed a secondary stock offering in 1996, we utilized the proceeds to finance an accelerated five-year strategic plan - ZOLTEK2000 - which included the installation of new continuous carbonization lines in Abilene, Texas and Hungary.
Sudden Upsurge
Orders increased suddenly in 2004, and the demand for carbon fiber continued to increase.
Continuing Expansion
As the demand for commercial carbon fibers increased, ZOLTEK acquired a facility in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Future
In 2014, ZOLTEK was acquired by the Toray Group.
