French PVC producer Kem One (Lyon; www.kemone.com) has started the construction work for the conversion of its site in Lavéra / France to electrolysis membrane technology (for previous coverage, see Plasteurope.com of 04.04.2014). The technology switch will cost the company about EUR 150m and is due to be completed by the end of 2016. Work at the 1,500 m² plot that will accommodate the new facilities commenced on 8 September, and the first equipment is to be delivered before the end of this year, Kem One said.

Using the electrolysis membrane technology will allow Kem One to improve production quality and at the same time reduce energy consumption. The switch is part of the company’s 2014-2016 modernisation plan, which calls for overall investment of EUR 250m.