Recent developments
Semiconductor-grade supply
BASF announced a new Electronic Grade Ammonium Hydroxide plant in Ludwigshafen, targeting 2027 start-up, to support advanced node wafer cleaning and etching and strengthen Europe’s chip supply chain amid fab expansions.
Electrolysis and chlor-alkali
To meet chlorine, caustic, and hydrogen demand, Asahi Kasei is expanding its Kawasaki Works to manufacture components for electrolysis systems, backed by METI’s GX program. Nobian’s chlor-alkali electrolysis at the Höchst Industrial Park now operates flexibly to grid conditions, with similar conversions at Ibbenbüren and Bitterfeld. Feedstock security was bolstered by approval to extend salt extraction in Zuidwending, Groningen through 2035.
Circular carbon routes
Technology pathways advanced as Evonik Oxeno and partners reported a new bimetallic catalyst system enabling CO₂/green hydrogen carbonylation to linear esters. In Norway, NEXTCHEM will study a waste-to-methanol plant at Norway's Mongstad refinery, assessing gasification and syngas purification for low-carbon methanol aligned with FuelEU requirements.
European competitiveness strain
Cost and trade pressures intensified. INEOS will shut down two production units in Rheinberg, Germany, citing high energy and carbon costs and lack of tariff protection, affecting allylics and electrochemicals. In the UK, INEOS is reducing its workforce by 20% at the Hull Acetyls plant, attributing cuts to energy costs and coal-based Chinese imports.
Biodiversity at soda ash
Site stewardship progressed as Solvay began piloting the IUCN RHINO approach at its soda ash and sodium bicarbonate site in Dombasle to quantify biodiversity impacts, set targets, and integrate with its ongoing decarbonization projects.