Kumho Mitsui Chemicals and Thyssenkrupp Start Up Chlor-Alkali Plant

Kumho Mitsui Chemicals (KMCI) has commenced operations at its chlor-alkali plant in Yeosu, South Korea, which uses thyssenkrupp Nucera's advanced e-BiTAC v7 electrolyser technology. The technology will enhance its diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) production capacity with locally produced chlorine, thereby reducing its reliance on imports.

The new plant is expected to produce 60,000 tons of chlorine per year. The plant is also equipped with a brine recovery system for MDI production byproducts, which complies with strict environmental regulations and reduces wastewater discharge. This strategic move further demonstrates KMCI's commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

thyssenkrupp Nucera initially provided a pilot unit that confirmed the technical feasibility of integrating waste brine into the chlor-alkali process. The company was awarded the EP contract in 2021 and designed and supplied the complete plant, a milestone in enhancing KMCI's production process and environmental responsibility.