MSSA, a Saint Marcel-based global leader in the sodium and lithium metal market and a subsidiary of the International Chemical Investors Group (ICIG), has announced a substantial expansion of its sodium methylate production capabilities at its La Rochelle facility. This investment will effectively double the company's annual output of sodium methylate from the current 20,000 tons to an impressive 40,000 tons, underscoring MSSA's proactive approach to address the escalating demand for sodium methylate produced through environmentally sound, mercury-free processes.

The expansion project entails the addition of a second state-of-the-art production line at MSSA’s La Rochelle plant. This facility operates as a joint venture with SISP, an affiliate of the port logistics service provider Groupe Sica Atlantique, leveraging their combined expertise and infrastructure. Notably, the new production line will mirror the existing one by employing MSSA's established mercury-free sodium metal-based production process, ensuring the continued supply of high-quality, sustainably produced sodium methylate.

Construction of the new production line is slated to commence by mid-2025, with expectations for it to become fully operational by mid-2026. This multi-million euro investment not only signifies MSSA's commitment to meeting market needs but also promises to bolster employment opportunities at its La Rochelle site, further contributing to the local economy.

Sodium methylate holds a critical role as a catalyst in various industrial applications. Primarily, it is a key component in the production of biodiesel, a renewable fuel source gaining increasing importance globally. Additionally, it finds significant use in the synthesis of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals, highlighting its versatility and essential nature across diverse sectors.

The impetus behind this significant capacity expansion is closely linked to evolving regulatory landscapes, particularly the UN Minamata Convention on Mercury. This international agreement mandates the phasing out of mercury-based processes in the production of sodium methylate and other alcoholates within the European Union by the end of 2027. In anticipation of this crucial deadline, MSSA's proactive investment will be instrumental in guaranteeing a consistent and locally sourced supply of sodium methylate produced via environmentally responsible, mercury-free methods for the European market.

Dimitri Rimbert, President and CEO of MSSA, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion, stating, "This significant expansion of our sodium methylate production unit underscores our dedication to providing our customers with sodium methylate from mercury-free processes produced in Europe. The increased capacity will enable us to better serve our existing customers, capture new market opportunities, and strengthen our activities in La Rochelle."