The new center is a continuum for the Center of Water Efficiency Excellence, which Kemira initially established together with VTT in Finland. The center in São Paulo, which will start operations in the end of 2010, aims to implement the newest water technology research in the growing South American market. Important focus areas will be biomass, bioethanol, pulp and applications for the oil and mining industries."This R&D center in São Paulo is the fourth part in Kemira's R&D center network that we need for executing our growth strategy. Kemira has been investing in building a strong technology platform and developing new water chemistry applications for various industries. A strong presence in emerging markets is essential for technology transfer and extracting signals from the market. Now we will have a network capable of conducting focused R&D for the South American market", says Harri Kerminen, CEO of Kemira.The primary function of VTT's new unit in Brazil will be to form partnerships with local enterprises and research institutions in turning biomass into chemicals, energy (biofuels), and pulp-based products.