Caustic soda (NaOH) and chlorine are produced by the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of sodium chloride (brine).  Previous technologies used in the chlor-alkali process included the use of mercury and diaphragm cells.  Due to pollution concerns, the mercury cell technology has nearly been displaced as there are less than 10 of these plants operating in the U.S. 

Effective off-gas temperature control without unwanted side effects can be achieved in many cement plants with state-of-the-art evaporative spray technology.

The field of biopolymers, while still in its early stages, is growing in popularity everyday.  Some biopolymers can directly replace synthetic plastics in traditional applications, while others possess unique properties that may open new applications.  For most biopolymers, it's still too early to determine if they'll be economically feasible on a large, industrial scale.

Biodegradable polymers, or biopolymers, are plastic materials produced from natural substances rather than petroleum-based feedstocks.  While many biopolymers are in development, one in particular has shown a very bright future.  Polylactic acid (PLA) resin can be used for many of the applications currently utilizing polyethylene resins.

Steam reforming of hydrocarbons for ammonia production was introduced in 1930. Since then, the technology has experienced revolutionary changes in its energy consumption patterns.