(BAT) Reference Document for the Production of Chlor-alkali ...

Chapter 1
ethylene) the US is the largest exporter of EDC and caustic soda. Europe is approximately in
balance in chlorine, and has traditionally been the world’s second largest exporter of caustic;
currently it is a net importer. Australia (alkali for the alumina industry) and south-east Asia
(EDC and caustic) are the main importing areas.
New capacity in the Middle East and south-east Asia may upset these traditional trade patterns.
Moreover, chlorine growth in Europe is likely to be lower than in most other parts of the world.
Whilst globally the chlorine growth may average 2 – 3 % per year over the next 10 years, it is
forecast to be less than 1 % per year in Europe.
1.4.4 Consumption of potassium hydroxide
The output of potassium hydroxide (also called caustic potash) is proportional to that of
chlorine. As for the production of sodium hydroxide, the ratio is more or less equal to the ratio
of the molecular weights (in this case 56.11/35.45 = 1.583) but is influenced by the side
reactions taking place at the electrodes and, in the case of the diaphragm and membrane cell
techniques, the diffusion of hydroxide through the separator.
Potassium hydroxide is produced commercially in two forms: as 45 – 50 wt-% solution (most
common) and in the solid state. Pure quality potassium hydroxide is used as a raw material for
the chemical and pharmaceutical industry; in dye synthesis; for photography as a developer
alkali; and as an electrolyte in batteries, fuel cells and in the electrolysis of water. Technical
quality KOH is used as a raw material in the detergent and soap industry; as a starting material
for inorganic potassium compounds such as potassium phosphate and potassium carbonate; as a
starting material for organic potassium compounds such as potassium formate, acetate,
benzoate, citrate, lactate and sorbate and for the manufacture of cosmetics, glass, and textiles
[ 12, Ullmann's 2000 ], [ 93, Euro Chlor 2011 ]. Figure 1.8 shows the applications of caustic
potash in Europe in 2009.
Agriculture (33 %)
Personal care products (12 %)
WORKING DRAFT IN PROGRESS
Feed (4 %)
Source: [ 93, Euro Chlor 2011 ]
Food (12 %)
Pharmaceuticals (3 %)
Technical products (36 %)
Figure 1.8: Caustic potash applications in EU-27 and EFTA countries in 2009
12 December 2011 TB/EIPPCB/CAK_Draft _1