Kemira announced an investment to expand the capacity of its sodium chlorate manufacturing facility in Ortigueira, Brazil. The investment, a strategic priority for Kemira’s Pulp & Paper business, will enable Kemira to respond to the continued growth of the bleached pulp market in South America where Brazil is the leading producer in the region. The capacity increase of over ten percent will be operational in the last quarter of 2024.

Sodium chlorate is the main component used in the production of chlorine dioxide, which is produced on-site at pulp mills. It is the primary bleaching agent for pulp, preserving pulp yield and providing superior strength compared to other oxidants. Kemira manufactures sodium chlorate using a proprietary process and renewable energy.

Harri Eronen, president, Pulp & Paper segment, Kemira: “This investment strongly indicates our commitment to our pulp and paper customers in the region. They trust Kemira because of our strong know-how in fiber processing and bleaching applications, which produce strong, bright and clean pulp for paper, board and tissues.”

The interest towards molded fiber increasing

Increasingly, industries are transitioning away from depending on fossil-based raw materials for everyday items such as packages and single use items, offering a significant opportunity for pulp and paper manufacturers.

“An application area that is particularly exciting for our customers is molded fiber. That’s because the transition from single-use plastics to renewable alternatives is driving a need for safe and cost-efficient molded packaging produced from renewable resources. It’s exciting to play a critical role in helping to realize a more sustainable and circular future with our partners through our chemistry.”

Cellulosic fiber, the renewable and abundant raw material, plays a key role in the circular economy. Kemira’s chemistry know-how enables a wide range of traditional and new end products, from recyclable paper, board and molded fiber packaging, to tissue products and textiles.

Note: The content of this press release has not been edited by Fibre2Fashion staff.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (HU)