European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Borealis Expands PP Capacity in Europe

At a glance
  • Borealis will expand its PP plant in Kallo, Belgium by 80kt, operational by mid-2020.
  • FEED phase approved for Beringen, Belgium PP plant expansion of 250-300kt, with final decision by end of 2019 and start-up by mid-2022.
  • New PDH plant in Kallo to supply propylene feedstock via underground pipeline.
  • Expansion supports demand in packaging and automotive sectors.

Expansion in Kallo

Borealis has decided to expand the capacity of its polypropylene (PP) plant in Kallo, Belgium, by 80kt. This additional capacity is expected to be operational by mid-2020. The expansion aims to leverage the increased propylene supply from the new propane dehydrogenation (PDH) plant in Kallo.

Expansion in Beringen

The company has also approved the Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) phase for expanding its PP plant in Beringen, Belgium, by 250-300kt. The final investment decision for this project is expected by the end of 2019, with the start-up anticipated by mid-2022. This project will include an upgrade to the proprietary BorstarĀ® technology platform.

Supply Chain Integration

The new PDH plant in Kallo will supply propylene feedstock to Beringen via an underground pipeline network, which is considered the safest and most environmentally friendly transportation method. Borealis is collaborating with various authorities and stakeholders in Flanders and Belgium to support these expansions.

Market Demand

The capacity increases are designed to meet the growing demand for PP in Europe, particularly in flexible and rigid packaging applications and the automotive industry. The expansions will ensure a reliable and integrated value chain from feedstock to customers, addressing the market's tightening supply and continuous application growth for PP materials.