BASF Expands Ethylene Oxide Capacity at Antwerp Site
- BASF plans to expand ethylene oxide and derivatives capacity at its Antwerp site.
- The combined capacity of BASF's ethylene oxide plants in Europe is 845,000 metric tons per year.
- Major derivatives include surfactants, ethanol amines, glycol ethers, and polyether polyols.
- The final investment decision is expected in 2019.
Project Overview
BASF is planning a significant capacity expansion of its integrated ethylene oxide complex at the Verbund site in Antwerp, Belgium. This project will increase the production capacity for ethylene oxide and several downstream derivatives, including surfactants.
Current Operations
In Europe, BASF operates ethylene oxide plants in Antwerp and Ludwigshafen, with a combined capacity of 845,000 metric tons per year. The company is the largest producer of ethylene oxide derivatives in the region.
Key Derivatives
Major ethylene oxide derivatives produced by BASF include surfactants, ethanol amines, glycol ethers, polyether polyols, and other specialty products. These derivatives are used in a wide range of industries such as home and personal care, industrial applications, and the automotive industry.
Strategic Goals
BASF aims to strengthen its backward integration into ethylene oxide to support the continued growth of its customers in downstream markets. The final investment decision for this expansion project is expected to be made in 2019.