In June 2025, Phoenix Equipment completed the full acquisition and dismantlement of a Nitric Acid Plant and an Ammonium Nitrate Neutralizer at the Dyno Nobel facility in Donora, Pennsylvania. The project showcased Phoenix Equipment’s expertise in asset recovery, precision dismantlement, and sustainable materials management.
Challenge
The site contained a fully operational nitric acid plant featuring complex infrastructure: an absorber tower, compressor house, heat train, tanks, extensive pipe racks, and supporting process systems. The project required careful planning to safely dismantle major process units while leaving essential pipe racks in place to support the site's ongoing operations.
Solution
Phoenix Equipment executed the project in three phases:
Pre-Dismantlement Preparation. The team documented the existing plant configuration, assessing structural and process components to develop a precise dismantlement plan. Critical pipe racks were identified for partial retention, requiring surgical removal of only the non-operable piping.
Dismantlement Execution. Specialized crews performed the structural deconstruction of major units, including mechanical demolition of towers, removal of reactors, and dismantling of steel structures and piping. Heavy equipment was deployed with strict safety protocols to ensure controlled deconstruction in a tight industrial setting.
Precious Metal Recovery and Recycling. Phoenix Equipment partnered with PGM Technologies, led by David Kelley, to conduct targeted precious metal recovery. High-value assets were identified, extracted, and processed to maximize recovery value. All remaining equipment and scrap metal were systematically recycled. Construction debris was responsibly contained and removed using site-supplied containers to maintain an organized and clean workspace.
Outcome
By project closeout:
The entire plant was safely dismantled.
Major structures and debris were cleared.
Remaining concrete pads and minimal infrastructure were left for future development.
Valuable metals were reclaimed, boosting total recovery value.
All scrap and recyclable materials were responsibly processed, minimizing landfill impact.
Key Takeaways
Strategic Asset Recovery: Phoenix Equipment maximized value through precious metal extraction and equipment sales.
Safety & Precision: The complex dismantlement was executed with zero safety incidents and minimal disruption to ongoing site operations.
Environmental Stewardship: Sustainable recycling and waste management ensured the site was restored to a clean, repurposable condition.
Conclusion
Phoenix Equipment’s work at the Donora site exemplifies its commitment to delivering safe, sustainable, and value-driven decommissioning solutions for industrial clients — transforming legacy plants into cleared spaces ready for future growth.