Recent developments
PFAS and nutrients
European compliance tightened by the EU Municipal Wastewater Directive, with phosphorus caps prompting process upgrades. LANXESS reports pilots where Bayoxide E IN 20 met ≤0.1 mg/L and is regenerable, while short‑chain PFAS control advanced as Lewatit MDS TP 108 at a Chemours site removed >99.9% and entered regular operation.
Membranes and UPW
Membrane innovation targeted biofouling and ultrapure service. Toray’s F-HFUG Series ultrafiltration (0.005 µm) cut biopolymer carryover to about one-third versus conventional UF, reducing RO cleaning needs. Arkema highlighted Kynar PVDF for semiconductor ultrapure water piping, alongside announced capacity expansions to support regional supply.
Digital operations and AI
Digital control advanced with Siemens’ SIWA Treatment Optimizer and soft sensors delivering real-time recommendations, with reported energy and emissions cuts up to 25%. Veolia and Amazon will deploy reclaimed water for cooling via modular units, using AWS AI for predictive maintenance and process optimization.
Disinfection and supply
Disinfection and supply shifted. LANXESS’s CHEMUK rollout added biocidal and oxidant options such as Preventol OX and Klarix EXIT. Upstream, INEOS Inovyn agreed to sell its Italian chlor‑alkali business to Esseco Industrial, including Rosignano and Tavazzano; customer and supplier arrangements continue until completion.
Market and energy
Market signals were mixed. Kemira Q1 2026 reported revenue −4% y/y and lower margins; guidance was maintained amid price actions, efficiency measures and small M&A. Energy exposure stayed topical as BASF’s Verbund model underscored 2022 gas‑price shocks to ammonia‑linked chains and subsequent restructuring.