Occidental Chemical Plant

FKA Vulcan Chemical Plant, Geismar, LA

Jobsite

Vulcan Chemical built the chlorinated organic chemical plant in Geismar, LA, in 1968.  In a joint venture with Mitsui, the plant added ethylene dichloride to its product line.  Later, in 2005, the plant was sold to Occidental Chemical Corporation which continues to operate at the site.

Address or general location

8318 Ashland Rd

Geismar LA  70734

Detail

Vulcan Materials’ primary business is in supplying crushed stone to the construction industry; however, in 1957, Vulcan began the production of chemicals when it formed its Chemicals Division.  The Chemicals Divisions eventually assumed the name Vulcan Chemicals in 1981.  

In 1968, Vulcan built its facility at Geismar, LA, which produced chlorinated organic chemicals.  In 1998, Vulcan entered into a joint venture with Mitsui and built a chlor-alkali facility at the Geismar facility and expanded production of ethylene dichloride that was already being produced at the site.  In 2000, Vulcan built a 240fa plant to meet the growing demand for ozone-friendly fluorocarbons used in insulation and construction foam products.  Vulcan Materials withdrew its interest in the chemicals business when it sold the Geismar facility to Occidental Chemical Corporation in 2005.  The facility is still in operation.