BASF increases capacity for higher oxo alcohols and plasticizers in Ludwigshafen

* Capacity for higher oxo alcohols rises by 80,000 metric tons per year
* Plasticizer production capacity increased by 40,000 metric tons per year


BASF is to raise production capacity in Ludwigshafen for higher oxo alcohols by 80,000 metric tons to a total of 390,000 metric tons per year. The additional capacity is earmarked mainly for the manufacture of plasticizers, whose production capacity BASF also plans to raise by 40,000 to 300,000 metric tons per year. The increased plasticizer production capacity is scheduled to be in place by the second quarter of 2008. The additional production capacities for oxo alcohols are to be built up stepwise through to the end of the first quarter of 2009. Plasticizers are added to materials such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) to make them soft and elastic. In May 2007, BASF increased its annual production capacity for the innovative plasticizer Hexamoll® DINCH to 100,000 metric tons.

“Our capacity expansions in Ludwigshafen are in response to strong demand from customers throughout Europe for PVC plasticizers based on C9 and C10 alcohols,” said Albert Heuser, president, Petrochemicals division. “This move strengthens our position as Europe’s second-largest producer of plasticizers.” C9- and C10-based plasticizers are increasingly replacing the C8-based plasticizer DEHP.

BASF’s plasticizer portfolio in Europe comprises the products Palatinol® N (DINP), Palatinol® 10-P (DPHP), Hexamoll® DINCH, as well as specialty plasticizers. Hexamoll® DINCH was specially developed for sensitive applications. Palatinol® 10-P, a plasticizer with outstanding weatherability, is primarily used for outdoor applications such as roof and swimming pool covers, truck tarpaulins and cabling. Palatinol® N is a flexible product suitable for use in flooring, carpeting, and other areas.