Kemira Expands Tarragona Site with ACH Line for Water Treatment

Kemira, a global player in sustainable chemical solutions for water-intensive industries, announced a strategic €20 million investment to expand its production site in Tarragona, Spain. The project, approved earlier this year, includes building a new Aluminium Chloro Hydrate (ACH) production line, significantly enhancing Kemira’s capabilities in advanced drinking water treatment.

Strengthening Drinking Water Treatment Portfolio

ACH, a high-basicity polyaluminium chloride, provides superior performance in removing colour and particles from raw water, particularly during heavy rainfall and flooding—issues increasingly affecting major European cities. The new line will reinforce Kemira’s position in the growing market for high-performance and sustainable water treatment solutions.

Meeting Climate and Market Challenges

Tuija Pohjolainen-Hiltunen, Executive Vice President, Water Solutions, emphasised, “With Aluminium Chloro Hydrate, we can offer customers more efficient and environmentally responsible solutions for drinking water treatment, especially in urban areas facing climate-related challenges. This strengthens our presence in key European and African markets, aligning with our long-term growth strategy.”

Sustainable and Efficient Production

ACH delivers higher aluminium concentration compared to conventional coagulants like aluminium sulfate, increasing treatment efficiency and reducing logistics-related CO₂ emissions. The Tarragona line will utilise proven technology already deployed at Kemira’s facilities in the United States and Poland.

Commissioning Scheduled for Early 2028

As per company press release, Kemira plans to commission the new line in early 2028, following permitting and construction. The facility is designed with minimal environmental impact, incorporating renewable energy and mitigation strategies for the limited emissions from natural gas usage.