Firefighters were called to a large blaze at an industrial estate on the south side of Aberdeen.
A large plume of smoke from Altens could be seen across the city and there were reports of an explosion.
Grampian Fire and Rescue Service said it sent four crews to the scene. Nearby properties had to be evacuated.
Police said a number of roads in the area were closed off and diversions put in place. There were no reports of casualties.
The fire was in the Souterhead Road area and was reported at about 1130 BST.
People were quick to e-mail pictures to the BBC Scotland news website, including Innes Cameron who captured a dramatic skyline shot from Aberdeen harbour.
Another nearby eyewitness said: "I work in the building across the street, you could see smoke was blocking the sun and there was a heavy smell of burning plastics."