MSSA, a France-based player in the sodium and lithium metal market and part of the International Chemical Investors Group (ICIG), has doubled the manufacturing potential of sodium methylate from 20,000 tonnes to 40,000 tonnes at its La Rochelle site in France.
The enterprise said the move – involving an investment of “several million euros” – will assist meet developing demand for sodium methylate from mercury-free processes.
As part of the expansion venture, a second manufacturing line will be added 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 provider Groupe Sica Atlantique. The new line will use the same mercury-free sodium steel-based manufacturing method as the prevailing line. Construction works will start by mid-2025 and the new line is anticipated to be operational by mid 2026.
Sodium methylate is usually used as a catalyst in the manufacturing of bio diesel, as well as in high-quality chemicals and pharmaceuticals applications.
Due to regulatory necessities underneath the UN Minamata Convention on Mercury, the manufacturing of sodium methylate and other alcoholates using of mercury-based processes ought to be phased out in the European Union by the end of 2027. In light of this regulation, MSSA’s capability expansion will play a vital role in making sure the continuous supply of locally produced sodium methylate from mercury-free processes to the European market.
MSSA operates manufacturing centers in Pomblière and La Rochelle, France. The enterprise is the largest global and the most effective non-Chinese manufacturer of purified sodium metal, special alkali metals (including potassium and lithium), and related chemicals.
