JBC completes first phase of expansion to double bromine capacity

This phase of the project doubles the site's bromine production capacity.

"This investment further strengthens JBC's position as the world's low-cost bromine producer and allows us to continue providing our customers around the world with quality products that drive value in their processes," commented Luke Kissam, Albemarle CEO.

"I congratulate the joint JBC and Albemarle team on the safe and successful start-up. The ingenuity of our teams working on the project allowed us to implement technology that doubles our bromine capacity while only increasing our water consumption by 8%, with further decreases planned. This startup is proof of our commitment to safe and sustainable operations," Luke added.

The second phase of the expansion will double the current capacity of key bromine derivatives, hydrobromic acid, calcium bromide, and sodium bromide, and is scheduled for commissioning in May 2013.

Jordan Bromine Company is a joint venture between Arab Potash Company and Albemarle Holding Company, Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Albemarle Corporation.

"We are pleased with the progress on this significant capital expansion. It further demonstrates JBC's operational capabilities and the commitment of Arab Potash Company and Albemarle to JBC maintaining its position as a leader in the global bromine market," said Jamal Al Sarayrah, Chairman of Arab Potash Company's board of directors.

The partners commenced construction of the existing facilities in 2001, and operations began in early 2003.

"We are pleased that an existing multi-national business is reinvesting in Jordan to further grow its business," said Dr. Hatem Al-Halawani, Jordan Minister of Trade and Industry. "This project is proof of Jordan's powerful economic potential and encourages new capital programmes which mean more jobs and more prosperity for the region," he added.