- Covestro is investing over €300 million in the new aniline plant.
- The plant is expected to be operational by early 2025.
- The expansion will create around 40 new jobs.
- Aniline is a key component for MDI, used in insulation materials.
Investment and Timeline
Covestro has initiated the construction of a new aniline production facility in Antwerp, Belgium, with an investment exceeding €300 million. The plant is projected to be operational by early 2025, contingent on economic conditions. This expansion will create approximately 40 new jobs.
Importance of Aniline
Aniline is a crucial starting material for various chemical products, including MDI, which is primarily used in insulation materials for buildings and refrigeration equipment. The global MDI market is anticipated to grow by around six percent annually, driven by the trend towards sustainability and climate neutrality.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
The new plant will employ state-of-the-art technologies to enhance energy efficiency. Currently, 20 percent of the steam required on-site is generated from process heat. With the new plant, this will increase to 40 percent, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and potentially saving up to 27,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. This aligns with Covestro's goal of achieving operational climate neutrality by 2035.
Strategic Expansion
This expansion is part of Covestro’s broader MDI strategy to strengthen its production network in response to increasing demand. The company has already commissioned a new MDI plant in Brunsbüttel, Germany, and is nearing completion of a chlorine production plant in Tarragona, Spain, both utilizing energy-efficient technologies.
Regional Impact
For the Antwerp region, this investment is a significant milestone, contributing positively to local development. Belgium is a key player in the European chemical and life sciences sector, heavily investing in R&D and innovation, with substantial industrial investments announced in recent years.
