Kemira to build activated carbon reactivation plant in Sweden

Kemira plans to expand its production site in Helsingborg, Sweden, and invest millions of euros in the construction of an activated carbon reactivation plant.

The new plant will significantly increase the production capacity of activated carbon to meet the needs of the Nordic drinking water and wastewater markets. The planned expansion project is part of Kemira's long-term strategy to double its water treatment business.

The pre-engineering phase of the project is currently underway. The new plant is expected to be operational in the second half of 2027, subject to a final investment decision and environmental permits. Kemira also recently acquired Norit's UK reactivation business Purton Carbons Limited.

Activated carbon is the most commonly used technology for removing micropollutants such as odor and taste from drinking water and harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water treatment applications. Reactivation regenerates used granular or pelletized activated carbon, making it available for reuse. Micropollutant removal is expected to become increasingly important for water and wastewater treatment plants due to increasingly stringent regulations, such as those regarding PFAS removal.

"Regulations are driving the need for efficient removal of PFAS and other micropollutants from drinking water and wastewater. Kemira offers its customers new water treatment solutions, including reactivation services. Building this new capacity will enhance our water treatment offering and enable us to take advantage of growing demand in Europe," said Tuija Pohjolainen-Hiltunen, President of Kemira Industry & Water.