The Kuan Yin Site was built in the early 1990’s and started up in May of 1994 and was the 1st greenfield TiO2 plant built by DuPont since 1977. The plant operated from May 1994 until June 2023 when active operations were shutdown. Working with Taiwan regulators site personnel are decommissioning, and deconstructing the facility recycling 15,000 metric tonnes of steel, 250 metric tonnes of copper, 100 metric tonnes of stainless steel and 30 metric tonnes of aluminum into the local economy. Once the land is clear of materials it will be made available for other industries.
During its 29 years of operation the site nearly tripled its capacity through continuous improvement efforts to serve customers in Taiwan and throughout Asia. Products manufactured at Kuan Yin included dry and slurry TiO₂ as well as a co-product, Kuan Yin Crete, which was used in road construction sub-base and for geological improvements. The Kuan Yin Operating team was known for its operating excellence and over the year developed many leaders for DuPont who went into other operating units and facilities in China helping to develop a culture of excellence and deliver results.
Over its operating life the site received many awards for safety and environmental performance. The Taiwan government recognized the site as a role model for safety and environmental stewardship, Kuan Yin actively helped the Taiwan government, industries, and customers to raise safety and environmental protection awareness. The site established an excellent relationship with the local community, and was one of the first in the industrial community to create a community advisory panel with leaders from nearby villages.