Kemira has
finalized its approximately Euro 50
million investment into a new sodium chlorate production line in Joutseno, Finland.
The production of sodium chlorate as well as customer deliveries have started,
well ahead of the original schedule. Full capacity is expected to be achieved
by the end of the year, as
the company says in the press release received by Lesprom Network.
The new production line is based on Kemira's proprietary in-house technology
and it will significantly increase Joutseno site's current sodium chlorate
capacity. Sodium chlorate is the raw material for chlorine dioxide (ClO2),
which is produced on-site at the pulp mills and it is the primary bleaching
agent for kraft pulp.
"The consumption of bleaching chemicals is increasing due to the recent
pulp mill expansions and the announced greenfield
projects in the Nordics. We are ready to respond to the new demand and can now even
more effectively serve our customers with high quality products for many years
ahead. Our strategy is to grow faster than the market and to strengthen
Kemira's position as the leading chemical supplier for the pulp & paper
industry, and our investment in Joutseno supports these targets," says Kim
Poulsen, President, Pulp & Paper segment.
After the accomplishment of the expansion, Joutseno site is employing 80
persons and produces a wide range of chemicals for pulp and paper industry.
Kemira has finalized its approximately Euro 50 million investment into a new sodium chlorate production line in Joutseno, Finland. The production of sodium chlorate as well as customer deliveries have started, well ahead of the original schedule. Full capacity is expected to be achieved by the end of the year,