BASF to present at Utech Europe 2006

* Chemical intermediates the key to successful innovations
* World’s most important forum for polyurethane (PUR)


BASF is to present its range of chemical intermediates for the manufacture of polyurethane components on Stand No. 1270 at Utech Europe from March 28-30, 2006 in Maastricht, the Netherlands. This trade show first took place 20 years ago and is the world’s most important PUR forum for polyurethane material, equipment and processing technology. The exhibition is of equal interest to product developers and formulation experts. 130 PUR industry exhibitors await specialists from all industries involved in PUR processing, including the automotive industry, medical technology, textiles, construction and transport. Presentations from high-ranking experts round off the exhibition.

BASF’s globally unique portfolio of chemical intermediates includes a range of high-performance catalysts, polyols, additives and solvents used in the manufacture of PUR, an incredibly versatile material. In addition to a high level of supplier reliability through backward integration and global expertise in PUR, BASF offers local presence and extensive customer service. BASF also provides wide-ranging support in the development of innovative products and processes.

World leader in PUR catalysts

BASF has more than 20 PUR catalysts in its range, making it a world leader in this segment. The company markets high-performance reaction accelerators under the Lupragen® brand, including extremely low-emission PUR catalysts. Catalysts are required to facilitate the reaction of the two components isocyanate and polyol required for defined polymer formation. Different catalysts are selectively applied in accordance with the desired properties of the PUR material, for example depending on whether the final product is to be a hard, semi-hard or soft foam. BASF manufactures PUR catalysts at its sites in Ludwigshafen (Germany), Antwerpen (Belgium) and Geismar (USA).

Hard and semi-hard PUR foams are used for insulation, dashboards and insulating board. Soft foam is used for upholstering car seats, furniture and mattresses. PUR is also used in the soles of shoes and for energy absorbing systems in the automotive industry.

BASF

The operating division Intermediates of the BASF Group develops, produces and markets the world’s largest range of intermediates. The most important of the division’s more than 600 products include amines, diols, polyalcohols and acids. Among other applications, intermediates are used as starting materials for coatings, plastics, pharmaceuticals, textile fibers, detergents and crop protectants. Innovative BASF intermediates help to improve the properties of the final product and the efficiency of production processes. The ISO 9001:2000-certified operating division has access to plants at production sites in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. In 2004, this BASF operating division with 2,850 employees generated world sales of 2 billion euros (2003: 1.8 billion euros). For more information, go to www.basf.de/intermediates.

Contact Information

Klaus-Peter Rieser

BASF

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