Closing the loop and cutting emissions
The new salt recrystallization plant in Sabiñánigo prevents the emission of more than 5,000 tons of CO₂ per year.
At Ercros’ factory in Sabiñánigo (Huesca), a waste product has gone from being an environmental challenge to a circular opportunity. Thanks to a new crystallization plant, the company has managed to reuse 100% of the brine generated in one of its production processes, while also reducing CO₂ emissions by more than 5,000 tons per year.
From waste to resource: the innovation behind the change
In the manufacturing process of TCCA —a product used in swimming pool water treatment— residual brine is generated. This salty water solution couldn’t be fully utilized. Until now, it was concentrated in a plant that used steam produced from natural gas, which entailed high energy consumption and emissions.
Ercros has launched a new facility that incorporates more efficient technology by compressing the vapor generated during brine evaporation and using it as a heat source. This allows the separation of salt and water without burning natural gas.
But the most interesting part is that nothing is wasted:
• The solid salt, of excellent quality, is reused as a raw material in the production of chlorine and caustic soda.
• The condensed water is reintegrated into the plant’s own processes.
A commitment to energy efficiency and the circular economy
This project is a prime example of how technological innovation can transform waste into a resource, improve energy performance, and reduce environmental impact.
For Ercros, the new crystallization plant has led to:
• A reduction in annual CO₂ emissions of over 5,000 tons — equivalent to the emissions of about 2,000 cars driving for a year.
• A significant decrease in natural gas consumption.
• Complete circularity of a by-product that previously required additional treatment.
Support and outlook
The initiative has been supported by the Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving (IDAE), under the Energy Efficiency Aid Program for SMEs and Large Industrial Enterprises, managed by the Autonomous Community of Aragon.
This investment is part of Ercros’ 3D Plan —a transformation strategy focused on decarbonization, digitalization, and diversification. The plan aims to modernize facilities, make them more efficient and sustainable, and prepare the company for the challenges of the industrial future.
The salt crystallization plant in Sabiñánigo is a clear example of how this vision is being brought to life through concrete solutions that combine positive environmental impact with competitiveness.
