CASALE has started-up the new 450 tpd weak nitric acid (WNA) plant for BorsodChem MCHZ at its Ostrava site in the Czech Republic.
The facility achieved first nitric acid production on 30 September 2026, in line with the planned project schedule.
Awarded to CASALE in 2024 on a turnkey engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) basis, the project was executed by CASALE Project, the Group's Czech subsidiary, combining its engineering and project execution capabilities with CASALE's proprietary DualPURE™ dual-pressure nitric acid technology.
From EPC execution to successful plant operation
Following the contract award in 2024, the project progressed through engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning under a fast-track execution schedule.
The start-up sequence was completed in approximately 12 hrs, followed by an initial production run yielding 100 t of nitric acid.
Since start-up, the plant has entered operation and progressively increased production as part of its planned stabilisation and ramp-up phase, ahead of full-capacity operation and the subsequent performance test.
Approximately 1000 t of nitric acid have already been produced and are being used in BorsodChem's downstream production facilities, demonstrating the plant's integration into the site's industrial operations.
Steam export has also commenced, marking a further step in the activation of the facility's energy integration capabilities.
These achievements reflect the coordinated efforts of CASALE, BorsodChem and the project partners throughout the different phases of execution, from engineering and construction to commissioning and initial operation.
Efficient nitric acid production and energy recovery
At the heart of the new facility is DualPURE™, CASALE's proprietary dual-pressure technology for nitric acid production.
The process is designed to combine operational reliability, optimised energy performance, advanced environmental features and high safety standards, addressing the requirements of modern nitric acid production.
An important feature of the new plant is its ability to recover and export process steam, supporting energy integration with BorsodChem's existing industrial facilities and improving overall resource utilisation.
Supporting BorsodChem's industrial development
The new 450 tpd facility supports BorsodChem's requirements for nitric acid used in its aniline production chain, contributing to the development and modernisation of its Ostrava operations.
Executed on a fast-track schedule and supported by the EU Modernisation Fund, the project represents an investment in industrial modernisation, combining increased production capabilities with process technology designed to improve energy and resource efficiency.
The start-up further strengthens the long-standing cooperation between BorsodChem and CASALE, built around technology, engineering expertise and integrated project execution.
Integrated nitric acid technology and EPC expertise
The BorsodChem project demonstrates the strength of CASALE's integrated delivery model, bringing together proprietary process technology and the engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning expertise of its Group companies.
Through the CASALE Project, the Group combines international technology expertise with established local execution capabilities, supporting customers throughout the project life-cycle, from initial design to first production.
This integrated approach enables CASALE to address complex industrial requirements while maintaining a focus on project execution, process efficiency and long-term operational objectives.
The project adds another industrial reference to CASALE's nitric acid technology portfolio, further strengthening its experience in the design and delivery of efficient nitric acid production facilities.