Kemira to Expand Drinking Water Treatment Portfolio with New ACH Production Line

In its mission to provide sustainable chemical solutions to water-intensive industries worldwide, Kemira has announced a strategic investment to expand its production capacity in Tarragona, Spain.

The investment of nearly €20 million, approved earlier this year, will build a new production line for aluminium chlorohydrate (ACH), a high-performance coagulant used primarily in drinking water treatment.

The new plant will significantly enhance Kemira’s portfolio and strengthen its position in the growing market for advanced water treatment solutions. ACH is a high-basicity polyaluminium chloride that excels in removing colour and particles from raw water, especially during periods of heavy rain and flooding – a growing challenge for many of Europe’s largest cities.

“This investment in Tarragona marks an important step towards expanding our capacity to meet the growing demand for high-performance, sustainable water treatment solutions,” said Tuija Pohjolainen-Hiltunen, Executive Vice President Water Solutions. “With aluminum chlorohydrate, we can offer our customers more efficient and environmentally friendly drinking water treatment solutions, especially in urban areas facing increasing challenges from climate-related events. This also strengthens our position in key markets such as Europe and Africa, supporting our long-term growth strategy.”

ACH has a significantly higher aluminum concentration compared to conventional products such as aluminum sulfate and standard polyaluminum chloride. This not only improves treatment efficiency, but also reduces logistics-related CO2 emissions, making it a more sustainable option for European and export markets.

The new line will use proven technology already used in Kemira’s plants in the United States and Poland and is expected to be operational in early 2028 after the licensing process is completed.