- The €150M electrolysis conversion project at Lavéra will be completed by end of 2016.
- Earth-movers began site preparation on 8 September, with equipment arriving by year-end.
- The project involves around fifteen trades and several hundred workers.
- The new technology will improve production quality, reduce energy use, and comply with EU regulations.
Project Overview
Work has commenced on the technological conversion project at the Lavéra site, a key part of the equipment modernization plan. This €150 million project aims to upgrade the chlor-alkali production units and is expected to be completed by the end of 2016.
Construction Timeline
Site preparation began on 8 September and will continue until the end of October, covering a 1500 m² area. The first equipment deliveries are scheduled for the end of the year, with peak construction activity anticipated by mid-2016. The project will involve around fifteen different trades and several hundred workers and experts until its completion.
Technological Advancements
The new electrolysis membrane technology, the best available on the market, will enhance production quality, reduce energy consumption, and generate less pollution. This upgrade will also ensure compliance with new European regulations.
Investment and Modernization
This project is part of a broader modernization plan, with a total investment of €250 million between 2014 and 2016 aimed at improving industrial performance. Previous upgrades at the Lavéra site, such as changes to the vinyl chloride monomer units in May 2015, have already contributed to energy efficiency by reusing water produced during manufacturing.
Electrolysis Process
Salt electrolysis is used to produce chlorine, essential for manufacturing polyvinyl chloride (PVC), with caustic soda as a by-product of this chemical reaction.
