What do toilets and running shoes have in common…?

…they both use chlor-alkali chemistry to make life easier and more comfortable!

Looking to clean your toilet?…

Chlorinated bleach (or just “bleach”) has been an important household chemical for over two hundred years.  Every week, bleach is used to clean toilets and other places in homes and hospitals due to its role in removing bacteria and viruses. Click here for more information.

In addition, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is an important downstream polymer from the chlor-alkali process found in strong, durable and long-lasting water and sewer pipes. It is estimated that these pipes can last over 100 years depending on the type. Additionally, these pipes do not rust and can even be recycled at the end of their life. In 2022, over 800,000 tonnes of PVC was recycled in Europe with more being recycled every year. Read more here about the use of PVC in pipes. 

More detailed information here > 

And related to this:
Discover more about why and how we use PVC here >
Meet Giacomo, our plumber and heating installer who fixes your pipes and radiators >
 

… and getting a spring in your step outdoors?

Many modern running shoes use polyurethane, an important chlor-alkali material that provides comfort and support in all types of terrain. It is commonly found as a layer in the sole of the shoes. Read  more here about the use of polyurethane in footwear. 

Many other types of sports equipment can be made from chlor-alkali, including polycarbonate in protective eyewear, nylon tennis racket strings, neoprene swim suits and more!

More detailed information here > 

And related to this:
Discover more about why and how we use polyurethane here >
Watch our video on how chlorine chemistry helps keep us fit > 

 

Chlor-alkali is vital for many products in our daily life.