Kemira is set to expand its manufacturing site in Helsingborg, Sweden, with plans to invest a low double-digit million euro amount in constructing a new reactivation plant for activated carbon. This facility will significantly enhance the company’s capacity to regenerate activated carbon, catering specifically to the Nordic region’s drinking water and wastewater treatment markets. The expansion aligns with Kemira’s long-term strategy to double its water treatment business, with the project currently in its pre-engineering phase. Subject to final investment approval and environmental permits, the plant is slated to begin operations in the second half of 2027.

This initiative builds on Kemira’s recent acquisition of Purton Carbons Limited, the UK reactivation business of Norit. Activated carbon plays a critical role in water treatment, effectively removing odors, tastes, and micropollutants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are increasingly regulated due to their harmful environmental and health impacts. Reactivation, a process that restores spent activated carbon for reuse, supports sustainable and cost-effective water treatment practices.

The tightening regulations around micropollutants, especially PFAS, are driving demand for advanced water treatment solutions. Kemira’s investment in reactivation services positions the company to address these challenges while strengthening its market offering. “Regulations are pushing for more efficient removal of PFAS and other micropollutants from drinking water and wastewater,” said Tuija Pohjolainen-Hiltunen, President of Kemira’s Industry & Water segment. “This new capacity will enhance our water treatment solutions, enabling us to meet the growing demand in Europe.”

This expansion not only underscores Kemira’s commitment to supporting customers with innovative water treatment technologies but also reinforces its role in advancing sustainable and efficient solutions for the evolving regulatory landscape.

Kemira is a global leader in providing sustainable chemical solutions tailored to the needs of water-intensive industries. Its diverse customer base includes industrial and municipal water treatment operators, as well as companies in the pulp and paper industry. By offering specialized products and services, Kemira helps its customers enhance product quality, optimize processes, and improve resource efficiency, making operations more sustainable and cost-effective.

The company’s core focus areas include water treatment, renewable solutions, and digital services, enabling customers to tackle complex challenges such as wastewater management, process optimization, and compliance with environmental regulations. These offerings are designed to address the growing demand for efficient and eco-friendly solutions in industries that rely heavily on water.

In 2023, Kemira achieved an impressive annual revenue of approximately EUR 3.4 billion, reflecting its strong market presence and the value it delivers to its clients. The company employs a global team of around 5,000 professionals who drive innovation and support customer success.