European Chemical Industry News & Insights

LANXESS Invests in New High-Tech Plastics Plant in Belgium

At a glance
  • LANXESS is investing EUR 75 million in a new plant in Antwerp.
  • The plant will produce 90,000 metric tons of polyamide annually starting in Q1 2014.
  • Caprolactam is a key precursor for the plastics manufactured at the new facility.
  • LANXESS has invested EUR 185 million in its global production network over the last 24 months.

Investment and Capacity

LANXESS is investing EUR 75 million in a new plant in Antwerp, Belgium, designed to produce 90,000 metric tons of polyamide plastics annually. The facility is scheduled to begin operations in the first quarter of 2014.

Strategic Location

The new plant is located near LANXESS's existing caprolactam facility in Antwerp, which is a key precursor for the production of polyamide plastics. This proximity allows for efficient supply to LANXESS's global network of compounding plants.

Automotive Industry Focus

The automotive industry is a significant driver for the demand for high-tech plastics, which are used to create lighter vehicle parts, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. LANXESS plastics are utilized in various automotive components, including engine applications, door structures, and pedals.

Global Expansion

LANXESS is expanding its global production network with new plants under construction in Gastonia, USA, and Porto Feliz, Brazil. The company has also recently opened a new plant in Jhagadia, India, and doubled the capacity of its existing plant in Hamm-Uentrop, Germany.

Recent Investments

In the past 24 months, LANXESS has invested EUR 185 million in its global production network for high-tech plastics, with EUR 125 million allocated to its Antwerp facilities, including the new polyamide plant.