Georgia-Gulf Corporation

Year Submitted: 2003

Process: Vinyl Chloride Monomer Reactors

Industry: Chemical Manufacturing

Wastes Reduced: Multi-media

Location: Plaquemine LA

No. of employees: Between 100 – 500 employees

Contact: David Goldsmith, Senior Environmental Engineer

Phone: (504) 389-2677

Description:

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P2 Application:

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Environmental Benefits:

The new reactor produces only 30,000 lbs/yr of EDC contaminated catalyst whereas the fluidized reactors generated 500,000/yr. Copper contamination from catalyst to wastewater was reduced the same percentage (copper poisons the biological treatment system), and likewise copper discharges to the Mississippi River dropped dramatically. The more efficient reactor reduced by-product formation (hazardous waste), and wastewater acidity (by 80%). Air emissions from reactor start-ups and shutdowns were reduced 80 – 90%. The old fluidized reactors used biphenyl coolant which produced PCB’s if it leaked into the reactors. The new reactor uses water for coolant, thus eliminating the possibility of PCB formation.

Video: 1

Details of Reductions

Additional Information :

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Source: LDEQ