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.