Area Development
Olin Corporation is investing $160 million at its Charleston, Tennessee, facility. The investment will help retain the company's 350 workers. Olin will expand its production of potassium hydroxide and stop its use of mercury cell technology by 2012 as part of the project.

"The new Charleston plant will employ the most modern membrane technology, have lower operating costs, and will produce higher quality products. Over the past 18 months we have experienced a steady increase in the number of our customers unwilling to accept our products manufactured using mercury cell technology. The conversion of the Charleston facility, which in addition to chlorine and caustic soda also produces potassium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid, and bleach, will prevent the potential loss of these valuable customers," said Joseph D. Rupp, Olin chairman, president, and CEO.

The company will begin construction in the second quarter of 2011 and finish the project by the end of 2012.