Demand response (DR) can compensate for imbalances in variable renewable energy supplies. This possibility is particularly interesting for electrochemical processes, due to their high energy intensity. To determine the technical feasibility and economic viability of DR, we chose the chlor-alkali process with subsequent polyvinyl chloride production, including intermediate storage for ethylene dichloride. We estimate the maximum possible cost savings of implementing load flexibility measures. A process model is set up to determine the system characteristic. Subsequent optimizations result in the facility's best possible dispatch depending on additional and minimum power load, storage volume, and cost of a load change. Real plant data are used to specify model parameters and validate the system characteristic and the plant dispatch. An economic evaluation reveals the economic advantages of efficiency and flexibility. The approach can be used to analyze the DR potential of other chlorine value chains or facilities with high electricity demand in general.

The surface structure, in particular the surface roughness, and the surface chemistry of titanium implants influence their anchoring in bone. The aim of this study was to analyse metal-bone contact (MBC) after modification of the implant surface, using different materials for blasting. The surface modification of titanium was produced by blasting it with particles made of Al2O3 or bioceramics. The biological effects were then investigated experimentally using 27 rabbits, analysed after 7, 28 and 84 days after the implantation of titanium cylinders treated accordingly. The MBC showed a tendency for more bone after bioceramics were used as a blasting material, compared to Al2O3.

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