Bondalti Opens Chlor-Alkali Plant in Portugal with Asahi Kasei Electrolyzer
State-of-the-art facility to optimize environmental performance of chlor-alkali production.
Portuguese chemical manufacturer Bondalti Chemicals has successfully started operation of its state-of-the-art chlor-alkali production facility in Estarreja, Portugal. Constructed by German engineering company CAC Engineering and using Asahi Kasei’s state-of-the-art chlor-alkali electrolysis technology, the improved plant will also be utilized for further reducing power consumption and optimizing the use of materials in the chlor-alkali industry.
Together with CAC, Asahi Kasei has installed nine chlor-alkali electrolyzers at Bondalti premises in Estarreja, Portugal. This project to convert the brine electrolysis unit marks a new phase of modernization and will contribute to a significant increase in efficiency and reliability.
At Bondalti’s new plant, one of the nine electrolyzers will also be utilized for trial runs with new components, aiming to enhance electrolyzers' environmental performance, including power reduction and resource optimization.
This electrolyzer uses Asahi Kasei’s newest ion exchange membranes and electrodes that feature improved performance compared to conventional products. Electrolyzers apply an electric current that separates brine (concentrated salt water) into chlorine, caustic soda, and hydrogen, which are then used in a broad variety of chemical products in different industries. Used cells and electrodes from these trials will be recycled into materials for reuse in new components.
“The start-up of our new, state-of-the-art chlor-alkali plant was made possible by the expertise of our partners and the dedication and skills of our people,” comments David Lopes, Director of Bondalti. “This achievement marks a strategic milestone in Bondalti’s commitment to sustainable innovation and operational excellence and strengthens our vision of leading the way in responsible chemical manufacturing.”
“We are happy to see Bondalti’s new plant starting operation on schedule,” adds Yoshifumi Kado, Senior General Manager of Asahi Kasei’s Ion Exchange Membrane & Electrolysis System Division. “By combining Asahi Kasei’s comprehensive system know-how with CAC’s advanced engineering technology and Bondalti’s onsite knowledge, these three key players will further expand the boundaries of the European chlor-alkali industry, contributing to a more sustainable approach to manufacturing.”
