Kemira has announced plans to expand its sodium borohydride (SBH) powder production capacity at its manufacturing facility in Äetsä, Finland. This strategic investment aims to meet the rising global demand for SBH, particularly from the pharmaceutical sector, and further solidify Kemira’s position as a key supplier to both European and international markets.
Kemira has announced plans to expand its sodium borohydride (SBH) powder production capacity at its manufacturing facility in Äetsä, Finland. This strategic investment aims to meet the rising global demand for SBH, particularly from the pharmaceutical sector, and further solidify Kemira’s position as a key supplier to both European and international markets.
The expansion initiative includes the installation of a new production line and the implementation of enhanced process safety features at the existing plant. The total investment, estimated at under EUR 10 million, reflects Kemira’s commitment to strengthening its production infrastructure and supporting critical industries such as pharmaceuticals and specialty chemicals.
Sodium borohydride is widely recognized as an essential reducing agent, frequently used in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Its application spans numerous pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, where it plays a crucial role in producing safe, effective medications. Beyond pharmaceuticals, SBH is also utilized in various chemical manufacturing technologies, underscoring its versatility and industrial importance.
According to Antti Matula, Executive Vice President of Fiber Essentials at Kemira, the expansion is a direct response to growing customer demand. “We see increased demand from our pharma customers from India and also from Europe,” Matula stated. “With this investment, we will more than double the drying capacity of the plant, enabling us to respond to our customers’ needs and strengthen the local manufacturing base in Europe.”
This capacity increase not only ensures a more stable and efficient supply chain for existing customers but also positions Kemira to attract new partners in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors. The decision aligns with the broader trend of reinforcing regional manufacturing capabilities in Europe, reducing dependency on external supply chains, and enhancing overall production resilience.
The project is currently in the engineering phase, with detailed planning and design underway. Kemira anticipates the new production line will become fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2026. Once completed, the upgraded facility will offer significantly improved output volumes and safety standards, enabling the company to deliver consistent quality and meet the growing technical requirements of its clients.
Through this investment, Kemira demonstrates a proactive approach to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric growth. The expanded SBH capacity at the Äetsä site will not only support current market needs but also pave the way for future developments in pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing applications across Europe and beyond.
