Koura
Koura is the world's largest producer of fluorspar and a global leader in the development, manufacture, and supply of fluoroproducts, serving 60 countries with products used in various sectors including electric vehicles, energy storage, and medical treatments.
Overview of Koura
Koura is a global leader in the development, manufacture, and supply of fluoroproducts. The company is the world's largest producer of fluorspar, accounting for over 20% of the global supply. Koura also produces approximately 10% of the world's hydrofluoric acid. Koura's products are integral to various applications such as electric vehicles, energy storage, and indoor climate management. The company operates a vast global network, with 1,600 employees and 13 manufacturing facilities serving 60 countries.
Koura's Fluoroproducts
Koura's product range includes fluorspar, hydrofluoric acid, custom electrolytes, and refrigerants. Fluorspar is utilized in the production of cement, steel, ceramics, and aluminum trifluoride. Hydrofluoric acid is used for creating fluorochemicals, fluoropolymers, and catalysts. Their advanced fluorine materials and custom electrolytes, such as OS3® and OS5™, support the lithium-ion battery industry. Koura's refrigerants, under brands like Klea® and Zephex®, are essential for commercial refrigeration, automotive air conditioning, and medical treatments.
Manufacturing and Global Reach
Koura operates 13 manufacturing facilities worldwide, including major production centers in Mexico, the UK, the USA, and Japan. The company's extensive manufacturing capabilities enable it to meet the diverse needs of its global customer base. Koura's products are distributed across 60 countries through an expansive sales and distribution network. A new 11,000 square foot facility is under construction in Madison, Wisconsin, to enhance production of custom electrolytes.
Key Applications of Koura's Products
Koura's products are integral to various sectors including electric vehicles, medical treatment, commercial refrigeration, construction, and utilities. For example, Koura's Zephex® medical propellants are used in 75% of the world's metered dose inhalers. Their aluminum trifluoride is crucial in aluminum production, which is essential for aviation, automotive, and food packaging industries. Furthermore, Koura's refrigerants, like R-444A and R-454B, provide solutions for the automotive aftermarket and HVAC applications.
Government and Industry Collaborations
Koura has received a $100 million award from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop domestic manufacturing of electrolyte salts for electric vehicle batteries. This collaboration highlights Koura's role in advancing sustainable technologies and infrastructure. The company's technical propellants also contribute to industrial aerosols and thermal insulation, showcasing Koura's diverse contributions to multiple industries and underscoring its innovation and development capabilities.