BASF has started up a new production plant for alkylethanolamines at its integrated site in Antwerp, Belgium. The investment is expected to increase the company's global annual production capacity for alkylethanolamines, including dimethylethanolamine (DMEOA) and methyldiethanolamine (MDEOA), by almost 30% to over 140,000 metric tons per year.
“This investment underscores our vision of being the preferred partner for sustainable intermediates and our strong commitment to remaining a key supplier of alkylethanolamines,” says Ketan Joshi, President of BASF's Intermediates division.
Alkylethanolamines are mainly used as precursors for chemicals used in gas scrubbing, for flocculation agents in water treatment and as binders between pigments and resins in the paint industry. Other applications include softeners for textiles, additives for metalworking fluids and polyurethanes.
With around 300 various amines, the company has a broad portfolio of chemical intermediate products of this type. In addition to alkyl, alkanol and alkoxyalkyl amines, it also offers heterocyclic and aromatic amines, as well as specialty amines. Furthermore, the portfolio also includes a growing range of chiral amines, which are known for their high optical and chemical purity. The versatile products are used primarily in the production of process chemicals, pharmaceuticals and crop protection products, as well as cosmetics and cleaning agents. They are also used in the production of coatings, specialty plastics, composite materials and specialty fibers.
Autor(en): spa
