As countries go, you might say that Luxembourg punches above its weight. One of the smallest countries in the world, it’s also one of the richest, thanks to a thriving financial sector. It’s about to add another jewel to its crown, as Luxembourg-based tech company OCSiAl announces the launch of the world’s largest graphene nanotube production center in Differdange.

Yesterday, OCSiAl signed a long-term land lease with the state of Luxembourg for a 3.63 hectare (9 acre) site, where it plans to build a graphene nanotube production center. The signing follows a successful fundraising round with a group of Luxembourg-based investors. The $300 million investment is set to put Europe at the forefront of advanced materials innovation, said OCSiAl.

Founded in Luxembourg in 2010, OCSiAl reportedly is the world’s largest producer of graphene nanotubes, which it currently manufactures in Serbia. It has increased production capacity fourfold at that location since it went into operation. Graphene nanotubes are used in more than 10% of smartphones on the market and in more than one million electric vehicles, according to OCSiAl.

Graphene nanotubes create a dense conductive network inside thermoplastic compounds, ensuring stable electrical conduction performance with no adverse effects on the mechanical and rheological properties of plastics.

“Graphene nanotubes can improve over half of the materials we use every day, from safer batteries to longer-lasting tires and ultralight protective equipment,” said Alain Kinsch, a member of the OCSiAl board of directors. “We thank the Luxembourg government for enabling this project through the land lease and for fostering an environment where innovation and industrial ambition can thrive.”

Construction of the plant will be done in stages from 2028 to 2030. It is expected to create more than 300 new jobs.

By Norbert Sparrow

November 12, 2025