Dutch chemical industry news (page 16)

The new plants in Delfzijl mark the end of regular Dutch chlorine transports and highlight a successful public/private partnership, with significant government support and advanced membrane cell technology.

The de-bottlenecking project at the Geleen plant will add 24,000 tons/year capacity by Q3 2007, aligning with DSM's Vision 2010 strategy to maintain market leadership and enhance production processes.

The new chlorine and MCA plants in Delfzijl will use advanced membrane cell technology, saving 5% energy. The project, delayed by EU consent, aims to end chlorine transports in the Netherlands by mid-2006.

The Hengelo site in the Netherlands will increase salt production by 300,000-500,000 tons to meet electrolysis market demand, surpassing Delfzijl as the largest vacuum salt plant globally. Completion by 2004.

The new plant, with a 280M lb annual capacity, is the largest BDO facility globally. It also produces MPDiol glycol and allyl alcohol, enhancing Lyondell's supply capabilities in Europe, Asia, and North America.

The new STPP granule plant in Vlissingen, costing €14 million, was completed in January. It will be officially opened by the Queen's Commissioner in Zeeland and will produce specialty detergent components.