European Chemical Industry News & Insights

BASF Boosts Neopentyl Glycol Capacity

At a glance
  • Capacity at Ludwigshafen NPG plant increased by 10,000 metric tons per year.
  • Total NPG capacity now 215,000 metric tons across facilities in Germany, USA, and China.
  • Nanjing site expansion to add 40,000 metric tons by 2020.
  • NPG is used in polyester, alkyd resins, and powder coatings.

Capacity Expansion

BASF has increased the capacity of its neopentyl glycol (NPG) plant at the Verbund site in Ludwigshafen, Germany, by 10,000 metric tons per year. This brings the company's total NPG capacity to 215,000 metric tons, with facilities in Ludwigshafen, Freeport (USA), Nanjing, and Jilin (China). Additionally, BASF is expanding its NPG capacity at the Nanjing site by a further 40,000 tons, which will be available from 2020.

Global Production

With NPG production facilities in Europe, Asia, and North America, BASF is one of the world's leading NPG manufacturers. The expansion in Ludwigshafen is part of BASF's strategy to support the growth of its European customers.

Applications of NPG

Neopentyl glycol is valued for its high chemical and thermal stability, making it suitable for various applications. It is primarily used in the production of polyester and alkyd resins, which are essential for coatings and plastics. One significant application of NPG is in powder coatings, which are widely used in the construction industry and for coating household appliances.