Evonik and AkzoNobel to start membrane electrolysis plant in Ibbenburen, Germany
Germany: Evonik Industries, a Germany based specialty chemicals company, announced
the construction of a new membrane electrolysis manufacturing plant in
association with AkzoNobel in Ibbenburen, Germany. The newly formed production joint
venture is expected to be operational by 2017 with a production capacity of
130,000 tons of potassium hydroxide and approximately 82,000 tons of chlorine.
After completion of the new plant, Evonik industries plans to commercialise the
potassium hydroxide solution, whereas Akzonobel would commercialize chlorine
and hydrogen produced at the new electrolysis plant. Both the companies would terminate
the use of mercury-based amalgam electrolysis for the production of chlorine,
potassium hydroxide and caustic lye, once the membrane electrolysis plant is
operational. The new adopted technology is expected to reduce energy
consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.
TechSci Research depicts that the joint
venture would uplift the position of both the companies in their respective
market segments. The newly built plant and innovative process adopted for
manufacturing chlorine and potassium hydroxide solution would set a new
benchmark in the industry. Installation of membrane based plants is expected to
aid the industrial membranes industry.
According to the recent report published by
TechSci Research, “India
Membrane Market Forecast and Opportunities, 2020”, the membranes market in India is expected
to witness promising growth with a CAGR of over 16% during 2015-2020.
Increasing applications of membranes across various industries including food
and beverage, pharmaceutical, waste water treatment and desalination is
projected to boost the demand for industrial membranes in the country.