MSSA, a France-based participant in the sodium and lithium metal marketplace and part of the International Chemical Investors Group (ICIG), has doubled the manufacturing potential for sodium methylate from 20,000 tonnes to 40,000 tonnes at its La Rochelle site in France.
The enterprise stated the move – regarding an investment of “numerous million euros” – will assist meet growing demand for sodium methylate from mercury-free procedures.
As part of the enlargement venture, a second manufacturing line can be introduced to MSSA’s sodium methylate manufacturing plant in La Rochelle, which it operates in a joint venture with SISP, an affiliate of port logistics service supplier Groupe Sica Atlantique. The new line will use the same mercury-free sodium metal-based manufacturing procedure as the existing line.
Construction works will begin by mid-2025 and the brand new line is anticipated to be operational by mid-2026.
Sodium methylate is in most used as a catalyst in the production of biodiesel, as well as in high-quality chemical substances and pharmaceuticals applications.
Due to regulatory demands underneath the UN Minamata Convention on Mercury, the manufacturing of sodium methylate and different alcoholates using mercury-based procedures have to be phased out within the European Union by the end of 2027. In light of this law, MSSA’s capability growth will play a critical function in making sure the non-stop supply of locally produced sodium methylate from mercury-free procedures to the European market.
MSSA operates production centers in Pomblière and La Rochelle, France. The enterprise is the largest global and the only non-Chinese manufacturer of purified sodium metal, special alkali metals (along with potassium and lithium), and associated chemicals.
