As AMI Plastics World Expos 2026 approaches, we’re speaking with exhibitors about the technologies, challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the plastics industry. 

In this exhibitor spotlight, Chris Ahmer, Business Development Manager at U.S. Silica, discusses alternatives to TiO₂, next-generation engineered silica products, sustainability and how material science could evolve over the next decade. 

What makes your company stand out? What sets you apart from the competition, and why should visitors make sure to visit your stand? 

U.S. Silica stands out through a combination of materials expertise, vertically integrated operations, and a legacy of innovation in industrial minerals. At this year’s Expo, we’re spotlighting EverWhite® Pigment™, a proprietary white pigment alternative that delivers high whiteness and opacity with a lower cost and reduced carbon footprint versus TiO₂. We’re aiming to be more than just a raw materials supplier — we’re working to become a strategic partner known for helping compounders solve tough technical and economic challenges in color, sustainability, and performance. 

What’s the next big thing you’re working on? Can you give us a sneak peek into any new technologies, innovations, or breakthroughs you're bringing to the market? 

We’re continuing to push the boundaries of functional mineral design. Beyond EverWhite®, we’re developing next-generation engineered silica products tailored to improve polymer applications performance — all while aligning with global sustainability targets. While we're not ready to share any specifics here, visitors to our booth can ask for a sneak-peak preview of the next-gen version of EverWhite®. 

What’s the biggest challenge in the industry right now, and how are you tackling it? 

Sustainability and cost volatility — especially around TiO₂ pricing and CO₂ emissions — are two of the most pressing concerns we hear from compounders and brand owners. EverWhite® Pigment™ offers a cost-stable alternative that maintains visual appeal and performance, and we hope to be able to share more about how it can support sustainability efforts in the coming months as well. 

Fast forward 10 years. How do you see the industry evolving? What major trends do you think will reshape the sector, and how should businesses prepare? 

It's hard to say, but with the advent of AI for material science and geopolitical tensions, we may have a vastly different looking industry in the next decade. The winners over the next ten years will be those who balance performance, sustainability, and supply chain resilience — and we’re investing today to help our partners do just that. 

What excites you most about this year’s expo? 

We’re thrilled to showcase EverWhite® Pigment™ to a global audience of innovators. This Expo is a chance to connect with compounders, OEMs, and brand owners looking for viable alternatives to TiO₂, as well as those exploring next-gen filler technologies. Whether you're looking to cut formulation costs, improve environmental impact, or differentiate with aesthetics — we encourage you to stop by and see what’s possible with U.S. Silica. 

Meet U.S. Silica at AMI Plastics World Expos 2026 

Meet U.S. Silica at Booth C1106 at AMI Plastics World Expos, taking place November 11–12, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. 

Visit Chris Ahmer and the U.S. Silica team to discover EverWhite® Pigment™ and learn more about the company’s latest developments in minerals and polymer applications. 

Registration is free. 

Register free to attend