France did not only surprise the world with the election of Macron as President, there was more news from France, that also could change the chemical landscape. In June a subsidiary of Samfi Invest announced plans for a large scale production of “green” hydrogen. Instead of the common steam reforming of natural gas, this production starts with the electrolysis of water, resulting in hydrogen and oxygen.

New Lewabrane ULP line launched for removing micropollutants in water treatment

What would happen to the chemical industry if the price of oil continued to be volatile? And is it possible that it could continue to be priced at a relatively low level for a long time?

The Supervisory Board of PDH Polska S.A., Grupa Azoty’s SPV, approved the Management Board’s recommendation concerning the construction of a polypropylene plant in Police. This is potentially a far more attractive option for Grupa Azoty than production of propylene, which has also been considered. The final decisions are expected to be made in Q4 2017.

The new plant will support customer demand and improve security of supply for INEOS plants in Gladbeck and Antwerp. Proprietary Cumene Technology from Badger has been selected

VESTOLIT GmbH, a 100% subsidiary of Mexichem, announced that the capacity expansion published in May 2015 at the Mexichem Marl, Germany plant started up. Initial product runs have been completed and the test analysis has confirmed all quality standards and product specifications have been met.

The facility capacity raised to 1.5 million tonnes of fertilizer per year and extraction systems installed. The space has been ergonomically designed for better operation and maintenance. A variety of preventative and repressive measures have been taken. Previously a fairly dusty 120-metre cellar has become a clean, pleasant working environment with up-to-date technical facilities.