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2010-08-16

BASF to build dispersions plant in Huizhou to better serve growing markets in South China 惠州

*Strengthens BASFs commitment to Asias fast-growing paper markets, especially China
*Supports anticipated growth in the region
s coatings, construction, printing & packaging and adhesives markets
*With an annual capacity of 100,000 tons, expands local production network to serve customers in South China

BASF will invest in
a dispersions plant in Daya Bay Petrochemical Industrial Park in Huizhou, China. With an annual capacity of 100,000 tons, the new plant will produce XSB dispersions for the paper industry and acrylic dispersions for industries such as coatings, construction, printing & packaging and adhesives . The facility will benefit from local availability of raw materials and proximity to key customers who serve Asias fastest-growing consumer markets. Production is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2012, subject to government approval. The investment is part of BASFs growth strategy for Asia Pacific, which has the goal of doubling sales by 2020.

This is an important step for BASF in Asia, following the establishment of our Paper Chemicals division in 2009. The investment strengthens BASFs commitment to the paper and board industry, with South China offering one of the fastest-growing markets in the region. With this facility, we are well positioned to support our customersaspirations for growth and success in the South,said EngSoo Chew, Senior Vice President, Paper Chemicals Asia Pacific.

With our upstream monomer integration in China, world-scale dispersion plants exceeding half a million tons in capacity and unique process for manufacturing low-VOC dispersions, we are well positioned to support our customersstrong growth with a reliable supply of water-based acrylic dispersions in the region,said Gops Pillay, Senior Vice President, Dispersions & Pigments Asia Pacific.

The investment reflects BASF
s focus on participating in the strong growth of markets in emerging Asia. The additional capacity will strengthen and complement its regional production network for XSB and acrylic dispersions, which currently includes plants in East China, Indonesia and India. XSB dispersions are used as coating binders for paper, while acrylic dispersions are used in paints and coatings, printing and packaging, construction materials and adhesives.

About BASF
s Dispersions and Pigments Division

BASF is the leading global supplier of raw materials for the coating and paint industry. The new division Dispersions & Pigments combines all BASF offerings towards this industry. The portfolio encompasses pigments, resins, dispersions and a broad range of additives like light stabilizers and photoinitiators. Further end-use industries include construction materials, adhesives, printing and packaging. Our portfolio is focused on environmentally friendly systems, such as low-VOC water-based coatings.


2010-10-07 BASF

BASF to establish STYROLUTION as a leading company in styrenics

BASF is continuing to pursue the strategic development of its styrenics business. STYROLUTION will be established to make the business even more viable for the future. BASF plans to carve out its businesses in styrene monomers (SM), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene butadiene copolymers (SBC) and other styrene-based copolymers and establish separate companies. BASF will retain its global business in polystyrene foams. The SM/PS capacities in Ludwigshafen used to produce foams will also remain with BASF.

The carve-out is to be completed by January 1, 2011. STYROLUTION will play a leading role in the styrenics industry and will continue to improve its competitiveness.

The establishment of STYROLUTION is a further step in the implementation of BASFs strategy for its styrenics business,said Dr. Martin Brudermüller, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and responsible for BASFs plastics business. Through this action, we will be able to sustain and improve our global business in an environment characterized by volatile demand, high pressure on margins and intensive competition. STYROLUTION will become the preferred supplier for customers globally thanks to its top technology, outstanding product portfolio and clear focus. At the same time, we remain open for other strategic options.

BASF will transfer its styrenics business at production sites in Germany (Ludwigshafen, Schwarzheide), Belgium (Antwerp), Korea (Ulsan), India (Dahej) and Mexico (Altamira) to STYROLUTION. Separate companies will also be established in other countries, for instance in the United States, Italy or China, where BASF has other styrenic activities, such as marketing and sales.

BASF currently employs approximately 1,460 people in the styrenics business. Sales of the business were about ? 2.5 billion in 2009.

During the carve-out BASF is committed to ensuring that customers receive the same high quality standards.

Roberto Gualdoni, head of BASFs Styrenics division stated: By focusing on styrenics, we are creating the flexibility to adjust even better to the challenges in the styrenics industry. Customer needs are the focal point of our business. They will profit from improved efficiencies, tailored services, faster technical support, as well as generally greater speed and improved competitiveness.

Styrenics are mainly used in household, office, electrical and communications engineering and packaging applications. Styrene copolymers are thermoplastics based on styrene monomers and acrylonitrile and have many different uses in the automotive and electrical industries as well as numerous everyday items.

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2010/10/7

BASF to Place Styrene Business Into Separate Unit Ahead of a Possible Sale

BASF SE, the world
s largest chemical company, plans to carve out most of its styrene operation generating 2.5 billion euros ($3.5 billion) in sales as a prelude to a possible divestment.


2010-11-30

BASF and INEOS to establish a new leading global styrenics company called Styrolution

*Letter of intent signed for new joint venture with expected annual sales of more than Euro5 billion.
*Planned joint venture will realize numerous benefits for customers in the styrenics business.

BASF SE (Ludwigshafen, Germany) and INEOS Industries Holdings Limited (Lyndhurst, UK) have announced their intention to combine their global business activities in
styrene monomers (SM), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene-butadiene block copolymers (SBC) and other styrene-based copolymers (SAN, AMSAN, ASA, MABS) as well as copolymer blends into a new joint venture called Styrolution. A letter of intent was signed by the two companies on November 29, 2010. The establishment of the joint venture is subject to approval by the appropriate antitrust authorities.

BASF has previously announced that it will carve out its styrenics activities by the end of 2010 and transfer them into separate entities. The carve-out will continue as planned and as of January 1, 2011, BASF
s styrenics activities will operate as a separate company with the name Styrolution. INEOS has also announced that it is to acquire the other 50% shareholding in its 50-50 styrenics joint venture, INEOS NOVA, from NOVA Chemicals. Upon completion of the proposed joint venture with BASF, INEOS will transfer these activities into the new Styrolution group.
    2010/10/11 BASF、スチレン系ポリマー事業を別会社Styrolutionに移管 
    
2010/11/22  Nova ChemicalsIneos Novaから撤退

Expandable polystyrene is not part of the transaction. BASF and INEOS will retain their expandable polystyrene businesses. The SM/PS capacities in Ludwigshafen used to produce foam will also remain with BASF as well as the SM/PS business of BASF-YPC Co. Ltd., in Nanjing, China.

Styrolution will have a global presence and will offer significant benefits to its customers in the styrenics industry through enhanced efficiency, reduced costs and excellent service.

Based on figures for 2010, Styrolution is expected to generate annual sales of more than Euro 5 billion. Company headquarters will be located in Frankfurt/Main, Germany. 50% of shares of the joint venture will be owned by BASF and 50% by INEOS. BASF will receive cash consideration following the completion of the transaction. The parties did not disclose any further financial details.

Roberto Gualdoni (54), who started his career at BASF in 1987, will be named CEO of Styrolution. In April 2010, Gualdoni became president of BASF
s Styrenics division. Christoph de la Camp (47) will become CFO of the new Company. De la Camp began his career with BP p.l.c. in 1994 and joined INEOS in 2005. He is currently the CFO of INEOS NOVA.

The formation of the joint venture Styrolution together with INEOS is a further important step in our active portfolio management,said Dr. Martin Brudermuller, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE. It is our plan to create a leading player in the global styrenics market in terms of efficiency, safety, customer service, product quality and competitiveness. Therefore, the new joint venture with a sizeable partner like INEOS presents the best option to strengthen the business. Both partners complement one another with regards to their product and technology portfolio and global footprint.

The joint venture will deliver new opportunities for innovation and growth that will provide significant benefit to our customers,said Jim Ratcliffe, Chairman, INEOS Capital. The world scale-assets will secure a sustainable and competitive business that is capable of meeting the long-term needs of a rapidly changing market. This is consistent with our long-term styrenics strategy.

Excellent global position

BASF intends to contribute its SM, PS, ABS, SBC and styrene-based copolymers businesses in the joint venture. This includes production plants located in Germany (Ludwigshafen, Schwarzheide), Belgium (Antwerp), Korea (Ulsan), India (Dahej) and Mexico (Altamira). BASF employs approximately 1,460 people in its styrenics business and is expected to generate sales of more than Euro3 billion in 2010.

INEOS intends to contribute ABS production plants at sites in Germany (Cologne), Spain (Tarragona), India (Vadodara) and Thailand (Map Ta Phut) to the joint venture. Furthermore INEOS will contribute its SM and PS businesses to the joint venture, which includes INEOS and INEOS NOVA sites in Canada (Sarnia), the United States (Indian Orchard, Joliet, Decatur, Texas City, Bayport), Germany (Marl), France (Wingles) and Sweden (Trelleborg). INEOS employs an approximate total of 2,200 people in its styrenics activities and is expected to generate sales of about Euro2 billion in 2010.

BASF and INEOS will continue to operate as strictly independent companies until the completion of the deal which, subject to the approval by the appropriate antitrust authorities, is anticipated in 2011.


2010-12-17 

BASF expands superabsorbent polymer plants in Antwerp and Freeport

*Expansion to raise global annual capacity to 470,000 tonnes
*Investment supports market growth and drives innovation

BASF plans to expand its existing superabsorbent polymer production capacities at its
Antwerp, Belgium and Freeport, USA sites. Gradual debottlenecking and technical expansion measures are to raise annual capacity by 70,000 tonnes to a total of 470,000 tonnes by 2012, with each site contributing an additional 35,000 tonnes.

Antwerp 175+35 = 210
Freeport 180+35= 215
タイ         20
ドイツ        25
Total
       470

The aim of the planned investments is to support market growth and drive innovation. The additional superabsorbent polymer volumes are also required to prepare investments at new sites in growth
markets.

Superabsorbent polymers are plastics with the capacity to absorb up to 500 times their own weight in liquid. The absorption drops to a still impressive figure of 50 times their weight in salty body fluids such as urine. In chemical terms, superabsorbent polymers are water-insoluble cross-linked high-molecular-weight polymers. Upon exposure to liquids, the granules form a gel that locks in large amounts of liquid and does not release it even under pressure. The product is used in the form of a white grainy powder.

Superabsorbent polymers have a variety of applications

Superabsorbent polymers are mainly used to make diapers. Adult incontinence products and female hygiene products are another priority area of research and marketing for the white granules. Some applications are non-hygiene - the absorption power of superabsorbent polymers is also used for car seat moisture control and agricultural water storage.

BASF operates "Verbund" production facilities, sites that are totally integrated for raw materials and energy use, for superabsorbents in Antwerp (Belgium) and Freeport (Texas) as well as small scale superabsorbent production plants in Mannheim (Germany) and Rayong (Thailand). This global presence and strategic site deployment leads to efficiently run logistic systems and allows BASF to supply customers worldwide. Moreover, we maintain Technical Service Centers in Charlotte (North Carolina), Ludwigshafen (Germany), Bangkok (Thailand) and Shanghai (China) to provide our customers with comprehensive services and first hand expertise.

2006/3 

BASF PLANS to increase production capacities for acrylic acid and superabsorbent polymers (SAP) in Antwerp and for butyl acrylate in Ludwigshafen, Germany.
The company will increase capacity of SAP to
175,000 tons per year from 115,000.
Capacity for the precursor acrylic acid will be extended as a result and a second plant with capacity of 160,000 tons will be built to support the existing 160,000 ton acrylic acid plant.

2007/10
BASF today (October 8, 2007) inaugurated two new manufacturing plants at its site in Freeport, Texas ? a production line for polyamide 6 (nylon) and a plant for superabsorbent polymers (SAP).

The polyamide production line replaces a facility in Enka, North Carolina. The new line has an annual capacity of 120,000 metric tons per year, and the caprolactam feedstock is supplied by another BASF plant at the Freeport site. With this latest step in BASFs consolidation strategy, Freeport is now the manufacturing base for BASFs entire polyamide intermediates and polymers business in North America,said Dr. Harald Lauke, president of BASFs Performance Polymers division. We are strongly committed to the North American polyamide market, and the state-of-the-art technology employed at the new facility will enable us to reliably support our customers with top quality polymers.

The new superabsorbent polymers manufacturing facility is supplied with a key raw material, acrylic acid, from another BASF plant at the Freeport site which provides major competitive advantages in terms of logistics and product quality. The new SAP plant has a capacity of 180,000 metric tons per year and replaces existing facilities in Aberdeen, Mississippi and Portsmouth, Virginia.

 


2011-01-04

BASF completes acquisition of CRI/Criterions styrene catalysts business

BASF today announced that it has successfully completed its acquisition of CRI/Criterions global styrene catalysts business.

As part of this agreement, BASF has acquired CRI/Criterion
s customer list, contracts and exclusive and non-exclusive licenses for intellectual property, including applicable patents and know-how in the field of styrene catalysts, as well as CRI/Criterions styrene catalysts inventory. There were no plant assets associated with the deal.

BASF previously announced the signing of this purchase agreement via a news release issued on November 29, 2010.

About BASF
s Catalysts division
BASF
s Catalysts division is the worlds leading supplier of environmental and process catalysts. The group offers exceptional expertise in the development of technologies that protect the air we breathe, produce the fuels that power our world and ensure efficient production of a wide variety of chemicals, plastics and other products. By leveraging our industry-leading R&D platforms, passion for innovation and deep knowledge of precious and base metals, BASFs Catalysts division develops unique, proprietary catalyst and adsorbent solutions that drive customer success.

CRI/Criterion, Inc. manufactures and supplies packages of catalysts, services, and solutions for refinery and petrochemical plants. It provides hydroprocessing, reforming, and specialty catalysts to the refining and chemical industries; and EO, VAM, styrene, hydrogenation, and environmental catalysts to the petrochemical industry. The company also involves in operating research laboratories, development facilities, manufacturing plants, and business units; providing oxidation and dehydrogenation catalysts and systems; and providing ethylene oxide and hydrogen catalysts.

CRI/Criterion, Inc. is based in Houston, Texas. CRI/Criterion, Inc. operates as
a subsidiary of The Royal Dutch/Shell Group


2011-02-01

BASF starts operations at expanded Ecoflex plant

*Production capacity for biodegradable plastics increases by 60,000 metric tons per year
*Production of plastics based on renewable raw materials also rises
*BASF expects significant market growth for biodegradable plastics through 2020

BASF has started operations at its expanded plant for the production of the biodegradable plastic
Ecoflex(R). Expansion of the existing plant in Ludwigshafen will increase production capacity for Ecoflex from 14,000 to 74,000 metric tons per year. At the same time, BASF will ramp up compounding capacity for Ecovio(R), a derivative of Ecoflex.  (45%ポリ乳酸 + Ecoflex)

Ecoflex is a plastic that has the properties of
conventional polyethylene but is fully biodegradable under industrial composting conditions in accordance with DIN EN 13432. Ecovio is a derivative of Ecoflex that is also biodegradable and that contains up to 75 percent renewable raw materials. Typical applications are shopping bags, organic waste bags, mulch films for agricultural applications, and food packaging. One of the latest innovations is Ecovio FS Paper, which is used to provide a biodegradable waterproof coating on the interior surfaces of paper cups and cardboard containers.

With Ecovio and Ecoflex, BASF is already one of the world
s leading suppliers of biobased and biodegradable plastics. Both of these properties are increasingly in demand, and the market for biodegradable and biobased plastics is currently growing by more than 20 percent per year.

脂肪族-芳香族ランダム共重合ポリエステル:
ポリブチレンアジペート
-ブチレンテレフターレート共重合体(PBAT:
Poly Butylene Adipate Telephtalate

生分解性ポリマー開発の経過
1) 1990年ドイツ政府からコンポスタブル/生分解性包装資材の開発の提案があり検討を開始。
2) 1992年 ポリ乳酸(PLA)FSを実施。BASF社はPLAの原料を持っていないこともありこの時はFSのみで終了。
3) 1994年 コストダウン可能な量産モノマーを原料として生分解性コポリエステルの構想のもと開発を開始。1995年にはラボレベルの実験開始。
4) 1998Ecoflex 量産8000トン/年を開始。 BASF社、社内のポリエステル事業の原料を利用、PBT事業の製造ノウハウも活用、相乗効果を発揮。
4-1) BASF社のEcoflexは、アジピン酸、コハク酸およびテレフタル酸を主体とする脂肪族-芳香族コポリエステルとして開発され、登場した。これは芳香環を導入することにより耐熱性と機械特性を上げると同時に、量産コストダウンを見こんだものである。

http://www.asumi-lab.com/pdf/as_403.pdf

 


2011-03-25 BASF 

BASF Chongqing MDI project approved

*Project approved by Chinese authorities
*BASF to invest RMB 8 billion (approximately Euro 860 million )
*Facility to start up by 2014
*New plant to produce materials that help Chinese consumers and manufacturers save energy, reduce carbon
*Project to be implemented according to BASF
s global environmental and safety standards

  2008/10/13 BASFの重慶MDI計画,進展か

BASF, the worlds leading chemical company, has received approval for a 400,000 metric tons per year MDI (diphenylmethane diisocyanate) project in Chongqing, China. The investment will total RMB 8 billion (approximately Euro860 million). The facility, which will produce a core component mainly used for polyurethane foams, is expected to start up by 2014.

The project was approved by Chinese authorities, following a stringent examination of environmental, health and safety standards, two rounds of local public consultation and several expert reviews. This state-of-the-art facility will consist of an
MDI plant, a nitrobenzene plant and an aniline plant, and will cover 40 hectares. It will form the center of an integrated chemical production complex operated by the Chongqing (Changshou) Chemical Industry Park.

Dr. Martin Brudermuller, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE, responsible for Asia Pacific, said,
Chongqing is at the center of a growing inland region. Investing here will give us access to what will be one of the biggest MDI markets in the world. We are applying world-class safety and environmental standards in the construction and operation of our facility, and at the same time we will produce products that have a direct impact on increasing energy efficiency and lowering carbon emissions. Our investment is a pioneering step into western China. With this investment we are supporting the Chinese Government with their plans for rapid and sustainable development in western China.

At the facility, BASF will produce MDI, a core component for versatile polyurethane (PU) products. Polyurethane is used extensively for cold as well as heat insulation applications and is the preferred material for keeping food and medications cold during production, distribution and storage. With its unique insulation properties, PU is used in the majority of refrigerators and freezers, for the insulation of hot water tanks, and for district heating or cooling pipeline insulation. In China, BASF has been producing MDI in Caojing, Shanghai since 2006. The company also has production of MDI in Antwerp, Belgium; Yeosu, Korea; and Geismar, Louisiana.

In addition to the production complex for MDI, BASF is also establishing a new Polyurethane Solutions System House in Chongqing to meet the demand of the growing markets in important industries like construction, appliances, transportation and footwear. The planned System House will have local production with sales, technical service and development personnel to provide fast and competent support to its customers.

With these steps, BASF is the first global PU player to show a strong commitment to this important and fast growing region of China,said Wayne T. Smith, President of BASFs Polyurethanes division. Our Polyurethanes Solutions System House will be fully integrated into the new MDI plant which is a significant advantage for our customers. In addition, they will benefit from the know-how and experience of BASFs PU specialists worldwide.

Local employment
BASF estimates that there will be at least 300 permanent jobs created through the BASF facility alone when the plant is operating in full swing. At start-up, a total of 17 plants and businesses in the chemical park will immediately begin operation as key partners or suppliers, forming the nexus of a new industry manufacturing cluster serving multiple, labor-intensive industries.

Focus on safety and environmental protection
Key safety and environmental protection features of the proposed project include full integration into a chemical park and optimized processes to bring very high efficiency and minimal emissions. The complex is an example of BASF
s integrated production concept known as Verbundin which waste streams are recycled and used as feedstock for chemical production to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact.

BASF has introduced a
five levels of safety for isocyanate productionsystem based on advanced solutions stemming from decades of experience worldwide to meet strictest local and BASF global environmental and safety standards. BASF works closely with the chemical park to guarantee very high standards for the facilities and management of environmental protection in the area.

Additionally, BASF will implement a
three levels of water protectionsystem. These processes include water protection measures from other sites BASF has operated for many years near sensitive watercourses such as the Rhine River in Ludwigshafen, Germany, the Schelde River in Antwerp, Belgium (located near the coastline of the North Sea) and the Mississippi River near Geismar, Louisiana.


March 28 2011 .hazardexonthenet.net

BASF Plans Acrylic Acid, Butyl Acrylate and Superabsorbents Complex in Brazil

BASF says it is exploring opportunities in Brazil to build an acrylic acid, butyl acrylate and superabsorbent polymers manufacturing complex. The company has signed a memorandum of understanding with Braskem, which will secure supply of propylene feedstock by Braskem to BASF.

BASF says it is conducting a feasibility study to evaluate the technical, commercial and economic viability of operating a world-scale acrylic acid and derivatives manufacturing complex in Brazil. The study, due for completion during this year, will determine which facilities will be included as well as their capacities. Construction is expected to begin next year with completion targeted for 2014-15. The company declines to provide details about capital expenditure but it recently said that it plans to spend Euro 496 million ($690.8 million) in South America, Africa and the Middle-East between 2011-15. This is likely to include the project in Brazil.

BASF is already producing butyl acrylate in Brazil but there is no production at all of acrylic acid and superabsorbent polymers in South America and all the product is imported, says Alfred Hackenberger, president BASF/South America. "With these new investments we will be the first company to produce acrylic acid and superabsorbent polymers in South America, which will enable us to better serve our customers, further foster our position in these markets and open up additional opportunities for our buisnesses in South America," he says. BASF's
butyl acrylate complex is located at Guaratinguetá.

BASF is the global leading producer of acrylic acid with combined capacity for 1.19 million m.t./year, including 320,000 m.t./year each at Antwerp and Ludwigshafen, 230,000 m.t./year at Freeport, TX, 160,000 m.t./year at Nanjing, China, and 160,000 m.t./year at Quantan, Malaysia. BASF plans to double capacity of the acrylic acid plant at Nanjing.

BASFのアクリル酸 (トン)

Antwerp   320,000  
Ludwigshafen 320,000  
Freeport, TX 230,000  
Nanjing, China 160,000 倍増計画
Quantan, Malaysia 160,000  
Total 1,190,000  

2011-05-26 BASF 

BASF to build worlds largest single-train TDI plant in Europe
 Fully integrated 300,000 metric tons plant to start up in 2014
 BASF will be able to serve customersdemand through local world-scale production in the largest geographic markets
 Unique Verbund concept provides excellent cost structures

BASF will build the world
s largest single-train TDI (toluene diisocyanate) plant in Europe. The plant will have a capacity of 300,000 metric tons per year and will be fully integrated with precursor production. The TDI plant will be located at one of the companys integrated Verbund sites in Antwerp, Belgium or Ludwigshafen, Germany and will start production in 2014. Engineering is underway and the final site selection will be announced shortly. TDI is a key component used for polyurethane foams.

Dr. Martin Brudermuller, Vice Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and responsible for the Plastics segment, said:
This new investment supports BASFs growth strategy, underlines our leading position as the largest TDI producer and reinforces our strong commitment to the TDI market. BASF will have the ability to serve its customersdemand through local world-scale production in the largest markets North America, Europe and Asia, in particular China. We have a superior technology and outstanding safety procedures. Moreover, our unique Verbund concept provides us with excellent cost structures."

With this new plant, we will complement our strong global network of integrated world-scale TDI facilities to serve our customersgrowing demand ,said Wayne T. Smith, President of BASFs Polyurethanes division. We expect the global TDI market to grow faster than GDP in the coming years, with strong contribution from Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. This growth is driven by ongoing urbanization and increasing standards of living.

TDI is a key component for the polyurethanes industry. To a large extent it is used in the automotive industry (e.g. seating cushion and interior applications) as well as in the furniture segment (e.g. flexible foams for mattresses, cushions or wood coating).

BASF is a leading supplier of basic products for polyurethanes and operates TDI plants in Geismar, Louisiana; Schwarzheide, Germany; Yeosu, Korea; and Caojing, China.

ーーー

BASFのTDIの製造拠点は以下の通り。

ドイツ Schwarzheide   70,000 t  
米国 Geismar   160,000 t  2002年に120千トンプラントをreplace
韓国 麗川   140,000 t  2003年稼動
中国 上海   160,000 t  Shanghai BASF Polyurethane Co., Ltd.

BASFは2006年に、BASFとダウが欧州で共同でワールドクラスのTDIとその原料プラントを建設するFSを実施することを決めたと発表した。TDIの能力は世界最大の30万トンで、2011年スタートを見込んでいる。FSでは立地、技術、インフラ等を検討するとしていた。

2006/11/27 BASFとダウ、欧州で共同でTDIプラント建設のFS実施

 


2011-05-30 BASF 

BASF and INEOS sign joint venture contract for Styrolution
  Joint venture to be a leader in the global styrenics market

BASF SE and INEOS Industries Holdings Limited have made an important step towards the establishment of the joint venture company Styrolution. On May 27, 2011 the companies signed a joint venture contract, which regulates the formation of the joint venture company Styrolution. The establishment of the joint venture is subject to approval by the appropriate antitrust authorities.

BASF and INEOS plan to combine their global business activities in styrene monomers (SM), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene-butadiene block copolymers (SBC) and other styrene-based copolymers (SAN, AMSAN, ASA, MABS) as well as copolymer blends into the new joint venture called
Styrolution. The business with expandable polystyrene is not part of the transaction. BASF and INEOS will retain their respective businesses.

The company headquarters will be located in Frankfurt/Main, Germany. In the joint venture 50% of the shares will be owned by BASF and 50% by INEOS. BASF will receive cash consideration following the completion of the transaction.

Dr. Martin Brudermuller, Vice Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and responsible for the Plastics segment said:
The signing of the joint venture contract is an important milestone. With the signing we have built a strong foundation to establish Syrolution, the leading global company for styrenics, before the end of the year, subject to regulatory approval. Styrolution will deliver to its customers around the globe even better service, a fast and secure supply as well as excellent product quality.

The Joint Venture agreement paves the way for a globally competitive business that will provide significant benefit to its customers,said Jim Ratcliffe, Chairman, INEOS Capital. Styrolution will be capable of meeting the long-term needs of a rapidly changing market as it competes effectively with large-scale producers from Asia and the Middle East.

Excellent global position
BASF intends to contribute its SM, PS, ABS, SBC and styrene-based copolymers businesses in the joint venture. This includes production plants located in Germany (Ludwigshafen, Schwarzheide), Belgium (Antwerp), Korea (Ulsan), India (Dahej) and Mexico (Altamira). BASF employs approximately 1,460 people in its styrenics business and generated sales of about ?3.9 billion in 2010.

INEOS intends to contribute ABS production plants at sites in Germany (Cologne), Spain (Tarragona), India (Vadodara) and Thailand (Map Ta Phut) to the joint venture. In addition INEOS will contribute its SM and PS businesses to the joint venture, which includes INEOS and INEOS Styrenics sites in Canada (Sarnia), the United States (Indian Orchard, Joliet, Decatur, Texas City, Bayport), Germany (Marl), France (Wingles) and Sweden (Trelleborg). INEOS employs approximately 2,200 people in its styrenics activities and generated sales of about ?2.8 billion in 2010.

BASF and INEOS will continue to operate as strictly independent companies until the completion of the deal, which is anticipated in 2011, subject to the approval by the appropriate antitrust authorities.

Styrenics are mainly used for household and office products, for electrical and communication devices and for packaging. Styrene-based copolymers are thermoplastic resins on the basis of the monomers styrene and acrylonitrile. They are mainly used in the automotive and technical industries as well as for many everyday products.

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2011/6/1 Ineos

EU Commission approves formation of joint venture Styrolution

· BASF and INEOS Industries to combine their global styrenics businesses
· Joint venture to be a leader in the global styrenics market
· Remedy relates to ABS production site in Spain

The EU Commission has today given its approval for the formation of the joint venture Styrolution. BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany, and INEOS Industries Holdings Limited, Lyndhurst, UK, now have EU clearance to combine in Styrolution their global business activities in styrene monomers (SM), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene-butadiene block copolymers (SBC) and other styrene-based copolymers (SAN, AMSAN, ASA, MABS) as well as copolymer blends. Pro forma sales of the combined businesses were ?6.4 billion in 2010. Expandable polystyrene is not part of this transaction. BASF and INEOS will retain their respective businesses.

With Styrolution, BASF and INEOS will establish the leading company in the global styrenics market. Styrolution has an excellent global position with production sites in Europe, Asia and North America.

The EU Commission has approved the formation of the joint venture subject to the requirement that the parties
sell an ABS production site in Tarragona, Spain. This site accounted for less than 3% of Styrolutions pro forma EBITDA for the year 2010. The formation of the new joint venture has already been approved by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission without any remedies.

BASF and INEOS will continue to operate as strictly independent companies until the completion of the deal, which is anticipated in 2011, subject to remaining approvals from antitrust authorities in other countries.

Styrenics are mainly used for household and office products, for electrical and communication devices and for packaging. Styrene-based copolymers are thermoplastic resins based on styrene and acrylonitrile. They are mainly used in automotive and technical applications as well as for many everyday products.

EU http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/11/672&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=ja

However, the Commission found that the proposed transaction, as initially notified, would have raised competition concerns in the market for ABS, where the merged entity would have had a strong position in a market where the concentration level is already high. ABS is a chemical product used in a variety of applications including, for instance, refrigerator door caps, vacuum cleaner components, washing machine panels, computer keyboards and housings, dashboard components and steering wheel covers.


201163日 BASF 

BASF が英国に持つBisomer monomer事業をGEO Specialty Chemicals, Inc.が買収

 GEO Specialty Chemicals, Inc.(本社:米インディアナ州ラファイエット)は、BASF(本社:独ルートヴィッヒスハーフェン)が昨年12 月に買収したコグニス社のコグニスUKCognis UK Ltd.)のBisomer monomer事業(hydroxy methacrylates, multifunctional methacrylates (MFM) and specialty adducts)と従来型コンタクトレンズ事業を買収することで、BASF と契約を締結しました。本取引の対象には、英国Hytheにあるメタクリル酸ヒドロキシ、多機能メタクリル酸エステル類(MFM)と特殊アダクト品、polyalkylene glycols PAG)、PAG ベースの潤滑油の生産拠点も含まれます。取引の一環として、約140 人の従業員もGEO スペシャルティ・ケミカルズUK・リミテッドに移籍する予定です。
 
BASF GEO は、取引条件を非公開とすることで合意しています。売却にあたっては、欧州委員会の承認が条件となります。取引完了は、2011 年第3 四半期中を予定しています。
 
GEO の最高経営責任者であるケニス・A・ガジーは、次のように述べています。「今回の買収は、GEO の塗料事業グループの重要な戦略的強化を意味しており、これによって、当社のグローバルな製造および研究開発能力が大幅に拡大します」。

 BASF は、201012月のコグニス社買収に伴い、欧州委員会に対し、ヒドロキシ・モノマーの事業資産の売却を約束しました。本取引に関連し、BASF は、長期供給契約の下、ハイス拠点で製造されるPAG PAG 系潤滑油をGEO から購入することで合意しています。

 ヒドロキシ・モノマーは、高性能自動車塗料や高光沢性ラッカー、工業用仕上げ塗料などに使用される中間体です。

GEOスペシャルティ・ケミカルズ・インコーポレ−テッドについて
 
GEO スペシャルティ・ケミカルズ・インコーポレ−テッドは、1993 年に設立された株式非公開企業で、ニッチ市場向けの特殊化学品を生産しています。水処理、塗料、建設・工業の3 つの事業部門があり、18 の製造施設を運営しています。

GEO is a leading producer of naphthalene sulfonate products used as dispersants in the concrete admixture, gypsum, oil field, ceramics and polymerization industries. Our LOMAR® brand is the most widely utilized worldwide.

GEO is one of the largest domestic manufacturers of calcium stearate dispersions. Our NOPCOTE® brand calcium stearate is widely used in the concrete admixture and block industry as a water proofing aid.

GEO is the #1 North American manufacturer and supplier of Glycine.

GEO is a leader in clay products for oil, gas and agrochemical applications.

GEO holds a number one global position in additives for high performance alkyd and polyester liquid and powder resin coatings using TRIMET® Trimethylolethane (TME) and environmentally friendly aqueous polyurethane dispersion resins using Dimethylolpropionic Acid (DMPA®).

GEO is a leading U.S. producer and marketer of aluminum sulfate and a leader in the market with ULTRAFLOC® aluminum-based flocculants and coagulants for water treatment and papermaking.


2011/6/16 www.plastemart.com

BASF signs Memorandum of Agreement to expand Yeosu facility for MDI

BASF has signed a Memorandum of Agreement to expand its Yeosu facility for MDI (diphenylmethane diisocyanate). The Yeosu site was established in 1998 and currently has an annual production capacity of 190,000 tons MDI, 160,000 tons TDI (toulene di-isocyanate), and 20,000 tons of CCD (Carbonyl Chloride Derivatives).
BASF and other companies will collectively invest a total of KRW 80 billion (approx Euro50 mln) in Yeosu Industrial Complex between 2011 and 2012, increasing the capacity of the MDI site from its current
190,000 tpa to 250,000 tpa.
"This investment will help us secure reliable supply to our customers not only in Korea, but also throughout the Asia Pacific region,
said Wayne Smith. It demonstrates our strong commitment to the polyurethane industry and to supporting our customers' dynamic growth."
"According to our Asia Pacific Strategy 2020, we will invest ?2.3 billion in the Asia Pacific region from 2011-2015. With this investment we are supporting the plans of Jeollanamdo Province for rapid and sustainable development. At the Yeosu site, we are producing products that help our customers increase energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions," said Albert Heuser, President, Market and Business Development Asia Pacific for BASF.


Bloomberg 2011/7/6

BASF Mulls GMO Crop Exit in Germany
BASF to Consider Genetically Modified Crop Exit in Germany

A technician holds test tubes full of plants grown in a BASF SE laboratory. BASF said it
s too early to comment on the future of plant biotechnology research, though the company will take regional politics into account. Source: BASF via Bloomberg

BASF SE (BAS), the world
s biggest chemical maker, may withdraw genetically modified crop research from Germany in response to growing political opposition, three people familiar with discussions said.

The maker of the Amflora scientific potato is considering the future of its research facility in rural Limburgerhof in southwestern Germany, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the plans aren
t public. A move to the U.S. is possible for the plant biotechnology operations, which employ 700, said one of the people.

Germany plans to close all 17 of its nuclear reactors by 2022, exiting atomic power after a meltdown in Japan stoked safety concerns. The move has strengthened the Green Party, which rejects nuclear energy and is now a junior coalition partner in BASF
s home state. The risks of genetically modified organisms are difficult to calculate, the Greens say.

GMOs may be just like atomic energy,said Ulrike Hoefken, the Green Partys regional environment minister. The risks are masked and big benefits are claimed. But its the general public who is left with the costs for any damage.

The flight of research means Germany may lose out on the $12 billion market for genetically modified plants, which is set to grow 5 percent annually over the next five years, according to advisory firm Phillips McDougall. BASF founded the agricultural center in Limburgerhof in 1914 and now has 11,000 square meters of greenhouses and some 40 hectares of fields.

Weighing Politics

BASF, in an e-mailed response to questions, said it
s too early to comment on the future of plant biotechnology research, though the company will take regional politics into account. The company has already halted projects focusing solely on the European market, it said. The Green Party tripled its vote in Rhineland-Palatinate, home to BASFs Ludwigshafen headquarters, on March 27.

We are committed to green biotechnology,Peter Eckes, head of BASFs plant science unit, said in an e-mail. We value the open and constructive dialogue we have had with Rhineland- Palatinates government in the past and want to continue this dialogue with the members of the new government. This also includes the clarification of the new governments attitude toward green biotechnology.

The potential setback comes a year after BASF won permission to plant its Amflora potato for use as a thickening agent for paper, overcoming 13 years of opposition from environmental groups in Germany and Sweden who cited possible damage to health and ecology.

Missing Out

Developing countries will overtake industrialized nations in planting genetically modified crops before 2015, said Clive James, founder of nonprofit International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications, or ISAAA.

The price countries like Germany will have to pay if they decide against biotech will be very high,James said in an interview on June 15. The money and the scientists would go elsewhere. Thats a long-term loss.

James estimates 15.4 million farmers in the world use biotech crops, 90 percent of those being among the poorest of the poor.The crops are an essential elementto help reach the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, which include cutting poverty and hunger by 50 percent by 2015, James said.

German seed maker KWS Saat AG (KWS) carries out research and plants test fields in its home country, while commercial planting takes place in the U.S. because of regulatory hurdles in Europe, according to spokeswoman Sabine Michalek. Bayer, based in Leverkusen, Germany, located its plant biotechnology research in Belgium.

Monsantos Moves
Monsanto Co., the world
s largest seed company, has pared plant development in Germany to a sole project with two test fields because the countrys basic framework doesnt lend itself to further products,company spokesman Andreas Thierfelder said.

Were keeping the minimum required to retain our accreditation,Thierfelder said by telephone on June 22. Its just enough to keep our foot in the door.Monsanto does most of its research in Missouri, where the company is based.

China may be spending the most on researching crops engineered for specific traits or resistance to pests, ISAAA
s James estimates, with Brazil and India also investing heavily.

China sees it as a strategic issue, a question of independence and of food security,he said.


2011-07-20 BASF 

BASF to build world-scale production site for customer specific antioxidant blends in Middle East

Major BASF investment into antioxidants to further strengthen the plastic additives business
New plant will be operational end of 2012

BASF will significantly expand its presence in the Middle East region by building a state-of-the-art plant for
customer specific antioxidant blends (CSB) in Bahrain. CSBs are key additives for the production of polymers for the plastics industry, especially for the Middle East region. Construction of the new facility will start in September 2011. It will become one of the worlds largest CSB plants with an annual capacity of about 16,000 metric tons. The new plant will be operational already by end of 2012.

材料特性と使用環境から、以下の点を勘案し、安定剤処方が選択される。
 ラジカル発生やラジカルによる連鎖反応を防止
 パーオキシラジカルによる連鎖反応防止
 遷移金属による自動酸化防止
 樹脂との相溶性
 加工温度で揮散しない
 酸素吸収誘導期間が長い
 添加剤と反応物が着色しない
 水や油に不溶
 毒性がない


  
http://www.tenkazai.com/monthly_Polyfile11.pdf

This is a major investment of BASF in the plastic additives business following its acquisition of Ciba in 2009 and manifests BASFs strong commitment to this industry. Hans W. Reiners, President of BASFs Performance Chemicals division, explained this strategic move: We are very happy to establish a state-of-the-art CSB production site close to our customers in this fast growing region. This is backed by our powerful production network of antioxidants in Asia, Europe and the Americas making us worldwide one of the leading partners to the plastic processing industry with a product portfolio unmatched in terms of broadness and quality. BASF is very much committed to further strengthen its plastic additives business ranging from antioxidants and lightstabilizers to pigments.

This new plant will come in addition to the existing manufacturing agreement for CSBs with Astra Polymer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, making BASF the largest CSB supplier in this region. This facility will be well positioned to serve the fast growing polymer market in the Middle East with special focus on key customers in the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), one of the fastest growing regions for the production of polyolefin resins worldwide.

The expected growth of the plastic polymer production in Middle East will get an additional push by increasing efforts to grow the plastics downstream market locally. As BASF, we are committed to accompany such growth with technical solutions and flexible supply patterns which are only possible as a local supplier,said John Frijns, Senior Vice President Plastics Additives Europe/EAWA. This will help us to deliver high quality products tailor-made to the demand of the industry. Furthermore, the proximity to our main customers will ensure a flexible and reliable supply.

2008/8/28 Ciba and Astra Polymers sign Joint Venture agreement on customer specific antioxidant blends in Middle East

Astra Polymers is an ISO 9001:2000-certified Saudi Arabian member company of industry conglomerate Astra Industrial Group (AIG) specializing in the production of high-quality Masterbatch (Black, White, and Color), and Dust Free Additive Systems together with custom-made Thermoplastic Compounds plus liquid based or paste colorants and custom compounding for the Polymer Manufacturing, Polymer Converting, Petrochemical and Plastics Processing Industries.

2009/4  BASFCiba買収

2010/7/12 BASF to discontinue Ciba JV plans with Astra Polymer
This termination will not impact the existing tolling agreement between the two partners to produce customer specific antioxidant blends for the region.

2010-10-19 BASF plans new blending facility for antioxidants in Bahrain


July 27, 2011 rubberworld.com/

BASF doubling plasticizer capacity

BASF is planning to double production of its phthalate-free plasticizer Hexamoll DINCH from 100,000 metric tons to 200,000 metric tons per year at the Ludwigshafen site by 2013. Therefore, a second production plant will now be built in Ludwigshafen. This will enhance supply security worldwide while continuing to ensure consistently high quality. The decision is based on a strong increase in demand across all regions as well as the continued growth of demand for alternative plasticizers.

This is the second capacity increase for Hexamoll DINCH since its successful market launch in 2002. In 2007, the original production capacity of 25,000 metric tons per year was quadrupled to 100,000.


2011-08-01 BASF

BASF and CSM explore a bio-based succinic acid joint venture

The two companies will intensify their collaboration with the aim to become the leading supplier in the succinic acid market

BASF SE and Purac, a subsidiary of CSM nv, today announce the start of negotiations to form a joint venture for the production of bio-based succinic acid
コハク酸. The companies have been conducting research under a joint development agreement on bio-based succinic acid since 2009. The complementary strengths in fermentation and downstream processing led to the development of a sustainable and highly efficient manufacturing process based on a proprietary microorganism. The demand for succinic acid is anticipated to grow strongly in the next years. Main drivers are expected to be bioplastics, chemical intermediates, solvents, polyurethanes and plasticizers.

“We are happy to bring our partnership with Purac to the next level,” said Dr. Andreas Kreimeyer, Member of the Board of Executive Directors and Research Executive Director of BASF. “Until now our partnership has been very successful, and moving towards a joint venture will strengthen our goal to become the leading supplier in the succinic acid market.”

“We aim to be the first commercial producer in the market with a 25,000 tons capacity fermentation production plant at the Purac site near Barcelona, Spain, with the intention to start up by 2013 at the latest,” said Gerard Hoetmer, Chief Executive Officer of CSM. “In addition, we are already planning a world-scale plant with a capacity of 50,000 tons to account for the expected demand growth. This partnership has enormous potential as it leverages the combined competencies of two leading companies in their fields.”

During the existing cooperation critical steps of the jointly developed production process have been validated in several successful production campaigns. The resulting volumes were used to evaluate the market. “After successfully testing the BASF in-house applications we are now able to make large volumes available for external customers,” said Dr. Thomas Weber, Managing Director of BASF Future Business GmbH with regard to the recent industrial production campaign in June 2011. “The goal is to globally provide a high product quality and offer security of supply to the customers,” Fabrizio Rampinelli, Managing Director of Purac, added. “Through this bio-based succinic acid collaboration we aim to add another important new growth-pillar to our bio-based polymers and green chemical business.”

The newly developed process combines high efficiency with the use of renewable substrates and the fixation of the greenhouse gas CO2 during the production. This results in a positive eco-footprint and makes bio-based succinic acid an economically and ecologically attractive alternative to petrochemical substitutes. The employed microorganism Basfia succiniciproducens
新規コハク酸生成細菌 is a natural producer of succinic acid and can process a wide variety of C3, C5 and C6 renewable feedstocks, including biomass sources.

About BASF Future Business GmbH

BASF Future Business GmbH, a 100 percent subsidiary of BASF SE, was founded in April 2001. It aims to open up business areas with above-average growth rates that lie outside BASF's mainstream activities. The company focuses on chemistry-based new materials, technologies and system solutions. BASF Future Business GmbH commissions research from BASF’s R&D units but also cooperates with startup companies, industrial partners, universities and potential customers. Other alternatives include the acquisition of direct stakes, joint ventures with partner companies or provision of venture capital via the subsidiary BASF Venture Capital GmbH. Further information on BASF Future Business is available on the Internet at www.basf-fb.de .

We support the development of new business areas with:

About Purac

Purac is a leading company in lactic acid
乳酸 based chemistry and the worldwide market leader in lactic acid, lactic acid derivatives and lactides. Purac is innovation driven and develops new products, technology and services in close cooperation with customers and knowledge centers. Purac has almost 80 years of experience in the development, manufacturing and marketing of its products in a broad range of industries. Purac operates production plants in the USA, the Netherlands, Spain, Brazil and Thailand and markets its products through a worldwide network of sales offices and distributors. Purac is headquartered in The Netherlands and is part of CSM.

About CSM 
CSMはオランダに本社を置く世界最大規模の製菓製パン材料メーカー

CSM is global market leader in lactic acid and lactic acid derivatives and is the largest supplier of bakery products worldwide. CSM operates in business-to-business markets throughout Europe, North America, South America, and Asia, generates annual sales of € 3 billion and has a workforce of around 9,700 employees in 28 countries. CSM is listed on Euronext Amsterdam. For more information: www.csmglobal.com

 

May 9, 2011

Royal DSM, the global Life Sciences and Materials Sciences company, and the French starch and starch derivatives company
Roquette Frères today announce that they will build a commercial scale plant for the production of bio-based succinic acid, the first non-fossil feedstock derived chemical building block that allows customers in the chemical industry to choose a bio-based alternative with a lower eco-footprint for a broad range of applications, from packaging to footwear.

With a capacity of about 10 kilotons per year, the plant will be Europes largest bio-based succinic acid facility. It is expected to come on stream in H2 2012 and will be built on the premises of Roquette in Cassano Spinola (Italy).


2011-08-19 BASF

BASF to invest in a world scale acrylic acid complex in Brazil

Largest investment in BASF’s history in South America
Start of production planned for 2014
Braskem S.A. to be strategic partner for raw materials and utilities
Start of 2-ethyl-hexyl acrylate production in Guaratinguetá, São Paulo, Brazil

BASF will invest in a world-scale production site for acrylic acid, butyl acrylate and superabsorbent polymers (SAP) in Camaçari, Bahia, Brazil. It will be the first acrylic acid and superabsorbents plant in South America. With an investment volume of more than €500 million, it is the largest investment in BASF’s century-long history in South America.

In addition, BASF will start to produce 2-ethyl-hexyl acrylate, an important raw material for the adhesives and special coatings industries, in its existing chemical complex in Guaratinguetá, São Paulo . This will be the first plant for this product in South America.

With the new acrylic acid complex, BASF aims to ensure the supply for important products as: superabsorbents for diapers, acrylic resins for coatings, textiles and adhesives and products for civil construction.

“BASF is the global and regional leader in the acrylic value chain. Due to the strong growth in Brazil, the time has come for this important investment. It will further strengthen our position and underlines our confidence in the development of the South American market,” said Dr. Stefan Marcinowski, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE.

“This project reinforces the importance of the region for BASF, ensuring the supply of our products to our customers in South America and contributing to the development of the country,” said Dr. Alfred Hackenberger, President of BASF South America.

The Camaçari location is being chosen based on the availability of raw materials (propylene) and utilities provided by Braskem S.A., the major chemical company in Brazil and the strategic supplier for BASF in this project.

The German multinational also announced an agreement with Brazil’s Braskem, Latin America’s largest petrochemical company, which will supply the propylene and soda that will serve as raw material for the new plant.

Braskem said it will invest around $30 million to expand its production in Brazil, noting that, under the agreement, propylene that is currently exported will instead be sold to BASF’s plant in Bahia.

“The contract with BASF will bring benefits to the whole acrylic acid value chain, not only because of the production capacity of the project and the size of the investment, but also because of the best-in-class technology available. Above this, the complex will generate new important investments to Camaçari, attracting new manufacturing companies to Bahia State,” said Carlos Fadigas, President of Braskem.

The construction of the new acrylic acid complex will start in 2011 employing about 1,000 individuals during construction. Production is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2014, generating 230 direct and 600 indirect jobs. The production for 2-ethyl-hexyl acrylate in Guaratinguetá is expected to start in 2015 on the basis of Acrylic Acid produced in Camaçari.

“We expect the investment to bring a very positive impact of about $300 million per year on the trade balance of the country, thereof $200 million through reducing imports and $100 million through increasing exports,” said Hackenberger.

Acrylic acid is an important precursor in the value chain of super­absorbent polymers, the active component of baby diapers and other hygiene products. Acrylic esters, the most important derivatives of acrylic acid, are used to produce adhesive raw materials, construction chemicals and architectural coatings such as Suvinil, BASF’s decorative coatings brand in South America and the leader in the premium segment in Brazil.

 


2011/8/25 

BASF : Nord Stream Pipeline Connected to OPAL
    Last welding seam joining first Nord Stream line and European pipeline network complete
    Pipeline system ready for next steps of commissioning

The direct link between the major Russian reserves in Siberia and the European natural gas market is in place: The first line of the Nord Stream Pipeline is now connected to the OPAL natural gas pipeline (Ostsee-Pipeline-Anbindungs-Leitung - Baltic Sea Pipeline Link).

 

The 470-kilometer-long OPAL will start where the Nord Stream pipeline comes on shore in Lubmin near Greifswald and run south as far as Olbernhau on the German-Czech border. Other connecting points on the route are planned in order to integrate the OPAL into the existing European gas infrastructure.

"The pipeline system is now ready for the next complex steps of bringing the pipeline on stream, which means we will be able to commission the first of the Nord Stream twin pipelines in the fourth quarter of 2011 as planned," Dr. Georg Nowack, Nord Stream AG project manager for Germany, explained. "The connecting pipeline OPAL, which will pick up the natural gas from Nord Stream and transport it onwards, is already complete," said Bernd Vogel, Managing Director of OPAL NEL TRANSPORT GmbH, a company of the WINGAS Group which will operate the connecting pipeline. "So we are ready. The Russian natural gas can come."

 


2011-09-27  BASF 

BASF to sell fertilizer activities to EuroChem

BASF has signed a contract with EuroChem, Moscow, Russia, to sell its fertilizer activities in Antwerp, Belgium. BASF also plans to sell its 50% share of the joint venture PEC-Rhin in Ottmarsheim, France, to EuroChem. The total transaction value is expected to be approximately €700 million. The divestments are subject to approval by the appropriate antitrust authorities. BASF plans to complete the transactions by the end of the first quarter of 2012.

In Antwerp, the scope includes plants for CAN/AN (calcium ammonium nitrate/ammonium nitrate) fertilizers, Nitrophoska® fertilizers and nitrophosphoric acid as well as three related nitric acid plants. BASF is in the process to carve out the activities into a separate company. About 330 employees will transfer to the new company which will be acquired by EuroChem.

BASF also plans to sell its shares in PEC-Rhin, which produces CAN/AN fertilizers and the respective intermediates, ammonia and nitric acid. The company is a 50-50 joint venture with GPN, a member of the French Total group, and currently has about 190 employees.

“Our very skilled team and the highly competitive plants will have a sustainable future and will create additional value with a strategic buyer whose core business is fertilizer,” said Dr. Andreas Kreimeyer, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE, responsible for the Chemicals segment. “Furthermore, EuroChem is an excellent partner to support our Verbund concept at the Antwerp site.”

Dmitry Strezhnev, CEO of EuroChem, commented “With the acquisition of BASF’s fertilizer complex in Antwerp, EuroChem will be gaining high-quality production assets with superior logistics that provide it with further geographical diversification and significantly improve its proximity to European customers. The same would be true for the 50% share of PEC-Rhin. This is in line with our strategy to increase our share in the global fertilizer industry through both organic expansion and targeted acquisitions. We are also pleased to become BASF’s long-term industrial partner on the integrated Antwerp site.”

The fertilizer activities have a total annual capacity of approximately 2.5 million metric tons of fertilizer and account for less than 1% of BASF Group’s total sales. BASF’s fertilizer operations in Ludwigshafen are not included in the scope of the divestment.

Fertilizers at BASF’s headquarters site in Ludwigshafen, Germany, are not included because they are too important to integration there.

For now, the company will carve out the business into a new subsidiary. Although the business has 2.5 million metric tons of annual capacity, it represents less than 1% of BASF sales. Since 2000, K+S Nitrogen has been the sole distributor of BASF fertilizers.

Kali und Salz
Salzdetfurth AG and Wintershall AG merged their West German potash and rock salt operations to form a new company called Kali und Salz, under the umbrella of BASF.

1998:
Kali und Salz GmbH is completely taken over by K+S Beteiligungs AG, BASF reduces its shareholding to 25.1%
1999:
The company is renamed K+S Aktiengesellschaft. It acquires COMPO and takes over the marketing and distribution of BASF-fertiva's nitrogenous field fertilizers. BASF reduces its shareholding to approx. 15%.

2011-03-11

BASF sells shares in K+S Aktiengesellschaft for approximately €1 billion
 
BASF SE has success­fully placed around 19.7 million shares of K+S Aktiengesellschaft (representing 10.3% of the company’s share capital) with institutional investors at a price of €50.00 per share. It was achieved through an accelerated bookbuilding transaction.

The total proceeds of the transaction amount to approximately €1 billion. BASF achieved a capital gain before taxes of about €900 million from the sale.

-----

Mar 28, 2011

BASF Said to Be in Talks With Orascom on Sale of Fertilizer Businesses

BASF SE is in talks to sell its nitrogen-fertilizer unit to companies including Orascom Construction Industries, said two people with knowledge of the situation.

Discussions with Orascom are at a preliminary stage, said the people, who declined to be identified because the process is private. The assets include a nitrogen site in Antwerp, Belgium, and a share of a venture in France, which together generate about 500 million euros ($702 million) in sales.

   建設会社でエジプトと中東で公共および個人顧客向けにエンジニアリング、調達、建設などの サービスを提供。

We also produce nitrogen based fertilizers and have investments in infrastructure concessions.

We produce the following nitrogen-based fertilizers:

- Anhydrous ammonia: 1.15 million tons annually
- Granular urea: 1.3 million tons annually
- Calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN): 1.15 million tons annually
- Urea ammonium nitrate (UAN): 0.2 million tons annually

We are also the largest global producer of Melamine with 0.25 million tons of annual capacity.

By 2012 our capacities will increase to:

- Anhydrous ammonia: 2.2 million tons annually
- Granular urea: 2.8 million tons annually
- CAN: 1.45 million tons annually
- UAN: 0.525 million tons annually
- Melamine: 0.25 million tons annually
- Methanol: 0.75 million tons annually

-------

EuroChem  
   controlled by Russian tycoon Andrei Melnichenko

EuroChem is a top ten agrochemical company globally

Our primary products are nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers, with additional income from iron ore concentrate, a co-product of our apatite mining operations. We plan to begin our own potash production in late 2013 at the Gremyachinskoe potash deposit. We seek to achieve vertical integration in our operations, from raw materials to transportation and retail distribution. Our product portfolio is well diversified, as are our global sales.

------

2011/9/27 Reuters

BASF's fertilizer sale may trigger K+S deal

BASF's sale of its nitrogen fertilizer plants to Russia's EuroChem may be a catalyst for more divestments at BASF's distribution partner K+S (SDFGn.DE), which now has to cooperate with a rival.

BASF, which pioneered the mass production of nitrogen fertilizer in 1913, said in a statement on Tuesday it plans to complete the transactions with EuroChem, worth a combined 700 million euros ($943 million) including unspecified debt, by the first quarter of 2012.

BASF's marketing partner and former subsidiary K+S, which is bound by an agreement that runs through 2014 to distribute BASF's fertilizers to farmers, said that it would not rule out a divestment of the sales and marketing network that BASF has drawn on.

A K+S spokesman said the company would fulfill its marketing contract regardless of the change of suppliers.

Potash miner K+S has said it would probably sell its nitrogen fertilizer sales network if a direct competitor -- which would include EuroChem -- were to buy BASF's plants because such a buyer was unlikely to need K+S's distribution services.

As part of its bid to focus on salt and potash mining, K+S in June divested its garden fertilizer and potting soil unit Compo and has also said that marketing nitrogen fertilizer was not a core business.

"EuroChem has a strong presence in Eastern Europe, they might be interested in using K+S's sales network to make inroads into Western Europe," said WestLB analyst Wolfgang Fickus.

"In an ideal scenario for K+S, EuroChem would seek to buy K+S out of its exclusive distribution agreement with BASF," he said, adding that this would turn K+S into a pure-play potash and salt miner and boost operating profit margins by 6 percentage points.

K+S shares were up 3.3 percent at 1400 GMT, underperforming the 5 percent rise in Germany's benchmark DAX .GDAXI.

EuroChem, which is controlled by Russian tycoon Andrei Melnichenko, said the deal would boost its European business.

"The acquisition ... is a major milestone in EuroChem's growth strategy to enhance its exposure to the European market," EuroChem's Chief Executive Dmitry Strezhnev said in a statement.

Melnichenko had this month said he was eyeing the purchase of a large asset in Europe soon.

Norwegian nitrogen fertilizer specialist Yara had also expressed interested in buying BASF's assets.

The businesses that are being sold, with a combined annual capacity of about 2.5 million tonnes of fertilizer, comprise plants in Antwerp, Belgium, and BASF's 50 percent share in its PEC-Rhin joint venture with French company Total.

BASF is keeping some fertilizer production facilities at its Ludwigshaven headquarters, where fertilizer precursors emerge as a by-product of making other chemicals.

BASF said in March the assets it was putting on the block accounted for less than 1 percent of group revenue, which would imply less than 640 million euros based on 2010 results.

It had announced earlier this year it would sell major parts of its fertilizer business, which is under pressure from low-cost producers in the Middle East such as Saudi Basic Industries 2010.SE.

Chemical companies in the region, mainly in Saudi Arabia, are using their cheap and direct access to natural gas, the feedstock needed for nitrogen, to make massive inroads into the fertilizer market.

K+S's main business of potash fertilizer is based on mineral mining while the nitrogen fertilizer industry converts natural gas into fertilizer in a chemical process. ($1 = 0.742 Euros)


October 11, 2011 BASF

BASF strengthens position in superabsorbent polymers in emerging markets
  BASF accompanies growth of customers in emerging markets with local production sites
  New SAP plants in Camaçari, Brazil, and Nanjing, China, with a capacity of 60,000 metric tons each
  Start of production in 2014

BASF is strengthening its position in the superabsorbent polymers (SAP) market with investments in local production sites in fast growing emerging markets. In South America, BASF will build a SAP plant in Camaçari, Brazil with an annual capacity of 60,000 metric tons.
Production is expected to start in late 2014.

In China, BASF-YPC Company Limited, a 50-50 joint venture between BASF and Sinopec, plans to start construction of a 60,000-metric-ton SAP plant at its Verbund site in Nanjing in mid 2012. Commercial production is planned for the beginning of 2014.

“With these two new projects, we will accompany the rapid growth of the emerging markets in South America and China,” said Gabriel Tanbourgi, President of BASF’s Care Chemicals division. “Local production allows us to serve our customers more flexibly and reliably.”
The investments in Brazil and China underline BASF’s long-term commitment to its customers and the emerging markets.
“Both plants will be built with our latest state-of-the-art technology and have the advantage that they are planned to be backwards integrated into acrylic acid,” said Teressa Szelest, Senior Vice President of the Global Business Unit Hygiene. “This allows the production of our high-quality premium SAP in the emerging markets as well.” With its innovative superabsorbent polymers BASF enables customers to set the trends in the markets for diapers, adult incontinence products and feminine hygiene applications. “Baby diapers particularly become thinner and thinner,” Szelest said. “With our innovations in superabsorbent polymers our customers are able to produce these new diaper generations, “ she added.

As already announced earlier this year, BASF is conducting a feasibility study to evaluate the technical and economic viability of constructing an integrated SAP plant in Kuantan, Malaysia. The study is underway and a decision on any investment in Kuantan will be made following the conclusion of the study.
Wide range of applications for superabsorbent polymers Superabsorbent polymers are plastics with the capability to absorb and hold up to 500 times their own weight in liquid – even under pressure.
The absorption drops to a still impressive figure of 50 times their weight in salty body fluids such as urine. The product is used in form of a white grainy powder, mainly to make baby diapers. Other key areas for research and marketing are adult incontinence and feminine hygiene products. The absorption power of superabsorbent polymers is also used for moisture control in car seats and food packaging.


2012-01-17 BASF                          BASF to build worlds largest single-train TDI plant in Europe

BASF to build an integrated 300,000 metric tons TDI plant in Ludwigshafen
   Project secures BASF’s position as the low-cost TDI producer
   80,000 metric tons TDI plant in Schwarzheide planned to be closed

BASF today announced that it will build a single-train 300,000 metric tons per year production plant for TDI (toluene diisocyanate) and expand additional plants for its precursors at its site in Ludwigshafen. These include the construction of a new hydrogen chloride recycling plant as well as the expansion of plants for nitric acid, chlorine and synthesis gas. It is also planned to expand the aromatics complex at the site for the supply of toluene. Total investment including the required infrastructure at Ludwigshafen site will be about €1 billion and create around 200 additional jobs. Production will start at the end of 2014. BASF plans to close down its 80,000 metric tons per year TDI production plant in Schwarzheide, Germany, when the new plant goes on stream. TDI is a key component mainly used for flexible polyurethane foams.

“This project will position us as the low-cost TDI producer in Europe due to economies of scale and the highly efficient integration into our Verbund,” said Wayne T. Smith, President of BASF’s Polyurethanes division. “Building our new TDI plant at our largest Verbund site in Ludwigshafen gives us the advantage of the excellent production synergies, raw material integration and logistics. Together with our existing TDI sites in Asia and North America we will be able to optimally serve customers in all major markets."

“We are constantly developing the Ludwigshafen site further to remain competitive internationally. In addition to such important investments in production, this involves modernization and targeted development of the whole infrastructure,” said Dr. Bernhard Nick, Site Manager of the BASF Ludwigshafen Verbund site. “The new TDI plant and the related facilities strengthen the competitiveness of BASF’s largest Verbund site.” Associated investments in precursors and infrastructure will support additional growth in other BASF value chains.

At Schwarzheide, BASF will develop its site structures according to the future needs over the next years to focus more on specialties. With the investment BASF will have two strong sites in Europe for polyurethane basic products: Ludwigshafen for the production of TDI and Antwerp for the production of MDI (diphenylmethane diisocyanate) and propylene oxide.

TDI is a core component for polyurethanes. TDI to a large extent is used in the automotive industry (e.g. seating cushions and interior applications) as well in the furniture segment (e.g. flexible foams for mattresses, cushions or wood coating).

BASF is a leading supplier of basic products for polyurethanes and is currently operating TDI plants in Geismar, Louisiana; Yeosu, Korea; Caojing, China and Schwarzheide, Germany.

BASFのTDIの製造拠点は以下の通り。

ドイツ Schwarzheide   70,000 t  
米国 Geismar   160,000 t  2002年に120千トンプラントをreplace
韓国 麗川   140,000 t  2003年稼動
中国 上海   160,000 t  Shanghai BASF Polyurethane Co., Ltd.

BASFは2006年に、BASFとダウが欧州で共同でワールドクラスのTDIとその原料プラントを建設するFSを実施することを決めたと発表した。TDIの能力は世界最大の30万トンで、2011年スタートを見込んでいる。FSでは立地、技術、インフラ等を検討するとしていた。

2006/11/27 BASFとダウ、欧州で共同でTDIプラント建設のFS実施

 


2012-01-16

BASF to concentrate plant biotechnology activities on main markets in North and South America
    BASF Plant Science headquarters to move to Raleigh, North Carolina
    Research activities in North America, Ghent and Berlin to be strengthened

BASF announced today that it is concentrating its plant biotechnology activities on the main markets in North and South America. The company will adjust the portfolio and site footprint of its subsidiary BASF Plant Science to reflect this change. The headquarters of BASF Plant Science will be moved from Limburgerhof, Germany, to Raleigh, North Carolina. Research and development activities will be concentrated mainly in Raleigh, Ghent, Belgium and Berlin, Germany. Development and commercialization of all products targeted solely at cultivation in the European market will be halted. Regulatory approval processes which have already started will be continued.

“We are convinced that plant biotechnology is a key technology for the 21st century. However, there is still a lack of acceptance for this technology in many parts of Europe – from the majority of consumers, farmers and politicians. Therefore, it does not make business sense to continue investing in products exclusively for cultivation in this market,” said Dr. Stefan Marcinowski, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF, responsible for plant biotechnology. “We will therefore concentrate on the attractive markets for plant biotechnology in North and South America and the growth markets in Asia.”

New site footprint
Research Triangle Park near Raleigh, North Carolina, will become the new headquarters for BASF’s activities in the area of plant biotechnology. It is planned that the current headquarters site in Limburgerhof, Germany, will retain 11 positions in some functions such as regulatory for Europe. The activities of BASF's Crop Protection division in Limburgerhof are not affected.

Currently 157 employees work for BASF Plant Science in Limburgerhof. The company plans to close its sites in Gatersleben, Germany, and in Svalöv, Sweden. Currently 57 people work in Gatersleben and six in Sweden. In total, it is planned to transfer 123 positions from Limburgerhof and Gatersleben to other BASF Plant Science sites, mainly Raleigh, and to reduce 78 positions over the next two years. Overall, this means that BASF is reducing 140 positions in Europe. BASF aims to offer the affected employees other positions within the BASF Group wherever possible. Consultations with the responsible employee representatives will start immediately. “Our employees have done excellent work over the past years. We regret that we are losing these high-quality jobs in Germany and Sweden,” said Marcinowski.

The company’s research facilities at metanomics in Berlin and CropDesign in Ghent will be strengthened. “Although the conditions for cultivation of genetically modified crops in Europe are unfavorable, there are world-class research institutes and universities in both Berlin and Ghent,” explained Dr. Peter Eckes, President of BASF Plant Science. “We have excellent scientists and facilities there and at our research sites in North America. We will continue our industry-leading research at these locations in order to further build an attractive gene discovery platform and strengthen our position as the Trait Technology Partner.”

Attractive product pipeline and promising partnerships
BASF Plant Science will halt the development and commercialization of all products that are targeted solely for cultivation in the European markets. These include genetically modified starch potatoes (Amflora, Amadea and Modena), a potato resistant to the disease late blight called Fortuna as well as a late blight resistant starch potato and a wheat variety resistant to fungal disease. To maintain all options for the potato products, BASF Plant Science will continue the regulatory approval processes for the products already started.

BASF Plant Science’s product pipeline will continue its strong focus on the yield and stress projects in which crops are developed with higher yields and improved resistance to stress conditions like drought. This includes the collaboration with Monsanto for corn, soy, cotton, canola and wheat. At the end of 2011, the first product from this partnership, drought-tolerant corn, was approved for cultivation in the United States. Cultivance® soybeans, developed together with Embrapa, were approved for cultivation in Brazil at the end of 2009, and the approval process for key export markets is ongoing.

 


2011-10-31

BASF applies for European approval for Fortuna, a disease-resistant table potato

 BASF Plant Science applied today for EU approval for Fortuna, a genetically optimized table potato. Fortuna has a wild potato’s natural protection to late blight, a disease causing severe problems in agriculture. The application for approval covers commercial cultivation as well as use as food and feed within the EU. In the next step of the approval process, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) will assess the safety of Fortuna for humans, animals and the environment.

 


2012/2/21  BASF

BASF、メルクの電解液事業を買収
  高機能バッテリー用電解液ポートフォリオの迅速で確実な拡充に向けた新たな一歩
  技術力を強化し、欧州の自動車メーカーおよびバッテリー・メーカーを支援

 BASF は、化学品および医薬品のドイツ企業メルクから高機能バッテリー用電解液事業を買収します。買収合意の詳細は両社の合意により公表しておりません。
 買収の対象となるのは、メルクが開発、市場導入したバッテリーの性能を高める技術と製品で、メルクの取得特許も含まれます。Selectilyte®ブランドで販売されている電解液材料の全製品、リチウムイオン・バッテリー(LIB)の製造に使われる各種添加剤ほか、新規電解質や添加剤関連のメルクの研究ポートフォリオも対象となります。今回の買収を通じて、革新的なソリューションが加わることで、BASF はリチウムイオン・バッテリー(LIB)関連の電解液事業を強化します。
 BASF の取締役兼リサーチ・エグゼクティブ・ディレクター Dr.アンドレアス・クライマイヤーは、次のように述べています。「今回の買収により、BASF は、世界各地の自動車メーカーおよびバッテリー・メーカーに提供するノウハウを充実させることができます。ダイナミックなこの市場において、BASF はバッテリー・メーカーのソリューション志向型のパートナーとなることを目指しています。電解液のサプライヤーとして信頼され、画期的なカスタム・ソリューションをバッテリー・メーカーに提供することを掲げるBASF にとって、メルクが開発した電解液ポートフォリオと彼らが確立した市場チャネルは強力な支援となるでしょう。」
 今回買収対象の事業を統括するメルクの先端技術部門を率いるDr.クラウス・ボーフィンガーは、次のように述べています。「メルクの電解液事業はこれまで成功を収めてきており、今後は、BASF で有効に活用されると考えています。メルクのお客様と開発パートナーが、BASF という革新的で信頼できる、そして、エレクトロモビリティを今後も強力に推進するサプライヤーを持つことが出来ることに対し、当社は大変嬉しく思っております。」

 電解液とは、バッテリー内部で電荷が移動する際に必要となる複雑な処方です。バッテリー性能を高めるためには、高品質な電解液が不可欠です。
 2011 年5 月にBASF は、高品質の電解液フォーミュレーションを開発し、バッテリー・メーカーに販売するグローバルな電解液チームを設置すると発表しました。このチームは当初BASF の中間体事業本部に置かれましたが、2012 年中には、BASF 触媒事業本部に新設されたバッテリー材料ユニットに統合される予定です。

BASF:バッテリー材料の改良に邁進
 バッテリーは、未来のエレクトロモビリティにおいて鍵となる技術です。
 2011 年に発表したように、BASF では、バッテリー材料の研究、開発、製造に今後5 年間で総額数億ユーロの投資を計画しています。リチウムイオン・バッテリー用材料の開発ほか、リチウム硫黄電池やリチウム空気電池といった新しいコンセプトのバッテリーについても研究を進めています。
 このような研究活動を通じ、電気自動車が、環境に優しく、持続可能で、入手が容易になることを目指しています。「そのためには、今よりも軽量かつ低コストで航続距離が延長できる画期的な部品やバッテリーが必要です」とクライマイヤーは強調しています。


Mar 1, 2012 Bloomberg

BASF, Shell in Talks to Settle $653 Million Brazil Contamination Penalty

BASF SE, the world’s biggest chemical maker, is in talks with Royal Dutch Shell Plc to determine who should pay a 490 million-euro ($653 million) fine for contamination in Brazil.

2010/8/25 ブラジル裁判所、Shell とBASFに多額の罰金

The site in Paulinia was “significantly” contaminated by the production of crop protection products, and BASF and Shell were jointly ordered in August 2010 to pay damages to former employees for medical treatment and personal suffering, BASF said in its 2011 annual report.

BASF said its Brazilian unit filed a lawsuit against Shell on March 30, asking a court to declare that Shell is responsible for the full amount of the damages resulting from the contamination at Paulinia. The two companies are in settlement talks, Ludwigshafen, Germany-based BASF said.

The Paulinia unit was built by Shell, sold to Cyanamid in 1995 and then acquired by BASF in 2000, the German company said in its annual report. The contamination stems from the period before 2000, BASF said.

Jennifer Moore-Braun, a spokeswoman for BASF, declined to comment beyond what is in the annual report. Spokesmen for Shell didn’t immediately return calls seeking comment.

The suit against Shell was reported today in German newspaper Financial Times Deutschland.

Risks from litigation and claims
  http://report.basf.com/2011/en/notes/notesonbalancesheets/note24.html

BASF S.A., Brazil, and Shell are defendants in several individual lawsuits and one class action lawsuit regarding existing and potential health damage to former employees (including employees of external companies), their families and descendants due to their employment at a site in Paulinia, Brazil, which was significantly contaminated by the production of crop protection products. BASF acquired the site from American Cyanamid in 2000, who had in turn acquired it from Shell in 1995. The contamination stems from the period before 2000.
In August 2010, BASF S.A. and Shell were jointly ordered to pay damages for medical treatment and personal suffering equivalent to approximately €490 million, not including interest.
The appeal against this first-instance judgment was rejected on April 4, 2011.
BASF S.A. has applied for the right to appeal to a higher court.
On March 30, 2011, BASF S.A. brought a suit for a declaratory judgment against Shell to determine that Shell is responsible for the full amount of damages resulting from the contamination at the Paulinia site, which had been caused by Shell. Currently BASF S.A. and Shell are in settlement talks with one another and with the plaintiffs.


2012-04-11 BASF 

BASF to invest in new chemical production site in Dahej, India
   €150 million investment to include production facilities for polyurethanes, polymer dispersions and care chemicals
  Supports growth of crucial local industries
  Start of production planned for 2014

BASF India Limited will invest €150 million to set up a new chemical production site at the Dahej Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR), located on the west coast of India in Gujarat.



The new site will be an integrated hub for polyurethane manufacturing and will also house production facilities for care chemicals and polymer dispersions for coatings and paper. With this new production site, BASF aims to ensure local supply for growing markets and industries such as appliances, footwear, automotive, construction, adhesives, architectural coatings, paper and personal care. The start of production is planned for 2014.

“With its robust local industries, India is set to become a pillar of growth in Asia Pacific. The country’s changing demographic profile and the resulting need for improved quality of life are driving increasing market demand. With the new manufacturing facility, we will be able to serve our customers better by developing solutions that meet their individual needs as well as strengthen their competitive advantage,” said Dr. Martin Brudermueller, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of BASF SE, responsible for Asia Pacific.

“The Dahej site complements the existing manufacturing set-up of BASF in India and will support and contribute to the growth of the Indian chemical industry,” said Mr. Prasad Chandran, Chairman and Managing Director, BASF India Limited. “The location offers excellent investment conditions and a favorable business environment due to the proximity to raw materials as well as customers. With this new project, we expect to grow our businesses in the important northern and western regions of India”, he added.

The site will employ more than 250 people at full capacity, primarily in operations. With shared infrastructure and state-of-the-art production systems, the site will also provide resource efficient BASF technologies for the conservation of energy and water. The site’s advanced design takes advantage of the latest technologies from BASF facilities around the world and ensures safe and responsible operations.

The integrated polyurethane facility will produce Elastollan® TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), Cellasto® NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) parts and Polyurethane Systems, which is supported by new production facilities for important precursors, comprising Polyetherols and Polyesterols plants as well as a plant for processing crude MDI (diphenylmethane diisocyanate).
ポリエーテルオール(polyetherol)、ポリエステルオール(polyesterol)
The care chemicals facility at the new Dahej site will produce surfactants largely for home and personal care. These surfactants will also add value to formulation technology applications including agrochemicals, textiles and emulsion polymerisation. With BASF’s global growth strategy for its care chemicals business, the Dahej site adds to BASF’s production footprint in one of the fastest growing emerging markets.

The polymer dispersions facility at the site will produce Acronal® and Styrofan®, key ingredients for architectural coatings, adhesives, and construction, Styronal® and Basonal® for paper coating and Basoplast® for sizing. BASF currently produces dispersions at an existing plant in Mangalore.
 

ポリウレタン(PU)とはウレタン結合を有するポリマーの総称です。 ウレタン結合はイソシアネート基と、水酸基などの活性水素を有する化合物との付加反応により生成されます。

イソシアネート基は非常に反応性に富んでいるため この反応は加熱しなくても進行し、 一度反応すると非常に安定な構造をとるという大きな特徴があります。 一口にポリウレタンと言ってもその外見は 発泡体、フィルム、弾性体、粉末、溶液、エマルジョンなど様々な形を取ります。

イソシアネート基を持つ化合物として、
トリレンジイソシアネート  (2,4or2,6-Tolylene diisocyanate)
ジフェニルメタンジイソシアネート (4,4'or2,4'-Diphenylmethane diisocyanate)
ヘキサメチレンジイソシアネート (1,6-Hexamethylene diisocyanate)
などがあります。  このほかにも、多数のイソシアネート化合物があります。

水酸基(OH)を2個以上含有する化合物はポリオールとも呼ばれ、一般的には以下の種類のものが使用されています。

ポリエーテルポリオール (Polyetherpolyol)

ポリエステルポリオール (Polyesterpolyol)

ポリカーボネートポリオール (Polycarbonatepolyol)

ポリカプロラクトンポリオール (Polycaprolactonepolyol)

また、水酸基の代わりにカルボン酸、アミン等の活性水素を含有する化合物も併用することができます。 このためポリウレタンと言っても無限の種類があるといえるほどです。

この特色を生かし、軟質フォーム、硬質フォーム、エラストマー、接着剤、塗料、バインダーなどの幅広い分野で利用されています。

--------

2012年7月24日  東洋エンジニアリング

インドで化学品製造コンプレックスを受注

東洋エンジニアリングのインド現地法人Toyo-Indiaは、世界最大の化学会社であるBASF社のインド法人が、同国西海岸グジャラート州ダヘジの石油・石化投資地区に建設する化学品製造コンプレックスを、このたび受注しました。本コンプレックスは、ポリウレタンの製造設備を中心に、洗剤などの家庭用品、塗料や製紙用の化学品製造設備も併設されます。Toyo-Indiaは、設計から工事・試運転までのEPC業務を一括請負で実施し、プラントの完成は2014年を予定しています。

本コンプレックスは、インド国内での需要が拡大している家電、自動車、建築用材料、製紙用薬品、家庭用洗剤・化粧品など、多種多様な化学品産業向けに素材を供給する製造設備で、同社のインド北部及び西部でのビジネス拡大に貢献するものです。ポリウレタン製造設備では自動車用部品やその他ポリウレタン製品に使われる熱可塑性樹脂、洗剤や化粧品用化学品製造設備では界面活性剤、塗料や製紙用の化学品製造設備では建築用塗料・建材や製紙コーティング剤などに使われる特殊ポリマーを生産します。

TOYOは昨年、インド・台湾・日本の合弁会社であるインド合成ゴム社向けに、インド初の年産12万トン合成ゴム製造設備を、またインド最大手化学会社のリライアンス社向けに年産4万トン合成ゴム製造設備を受注し建設中です。今後も活発な投資が期待されるインドにおいて、積極的にビジネス展開を図ります。

受注概要
客先 BASFインディア社 (BASF India Limited)
受注者 Toyo-India (Toyo Engineering India Limited)
建設地 インド、グジャラート州ダヘジ
対象設備 ポリウレタン製造設備、界面活性剤製造設備、特殊ポリマー製造設備
役務内容 設計・調達・建設までの一括請負
完成予定 2014年
 


2012/5/7 rdmag.com         

BASF purchases polyamide polymer business from Mazzaferro

BASF has declared the purchase of the Mazzaferro Group's polyamide (PA) polymer business based in Brazil. Through this acquisition, the position of BASF has been strengthened with respect to polyamide polymers and engineering plastics in South America.

The acquisition includes the production plants and locations for the engineering plastics compounds and PA 6 product range at São Bernardo do Campo. The capacity of the polymerization facility is approximately 20,000 t annually.

Mazzaferro’s businesses based on household products, fishing equipment, and monofilaments are not included in the acquisition and Mazzaferro will continue its operations at the productions sites located in São Paulo and Diadema. The acquired business by BASF will be integrated along with its polyamide polymer and engineering plastics business.

The President of BASF's Performance Polymers division, Dr. Wolfgang Hapke stated that this purchase strengthens BASF's position in the developing countries. The company will increase the production, based on the customer demands. There is a strong demand in Brazil for polyamide in the extrusion and automotive industry. The new location enables BASF to provide locally manufactured products to South American customers, he stated.

The engineering plastics division of BASF has included Ultradur (PBT), Ultraform (POM), Ultramid (PA), and Ultrason (PSU, PESU, PPSU). The engineering plastic Ultramid is polyamide-compounded, which is derived from base polyamide. The materials are mainly utilized in electrical and automotive applications.


2012-05-04 BASF

BASF to build new formic acid plant in the USA

Reinforcement of BASF’s leading position in formic acid
The only formic acid production in North America
Serving markets in North and South America

BASF announced today its plans to build a world scale production plant for formic acid ギ酸 at its integrated “Verbund” site in Geismar, Louisiana. The new plant will create 20 new jobs and have an annual capacity of more than 50,000 tons. It will be the only formic acid production plant in North America and will allow BASF to better serve strategic markets in North and South America including applications for pharmaceuticals, energy, animal nutrition, leather and cleaning products. Start-up of the new plant is expected in the 2nd quarter 2014. BASF currently operates two formic acid production plants located at the company’s integrated Verbund sites in Ludwigshafen, Germany, and Nanjing, China(50千トン), with a total annual capacity of more than 255,000 tons.
 
BASF’s customers use formic acid as an eco-friendly solution in a wide range of applications such as in animal feed where it provides protection of the feed and supports the health of the animal itself. Potassium formate, a salt of formic acid, is an environmentally friendly and highly efficient de-icing agent used on roads and airport runways. It is easily biodegradable thereby protecting aquatic wildlife in nearby rivers and watersheds. Both formic acid and potassium formate are used in the oil field industry as part of the drilling and completion process, as well as in shale gas exploration to promote extraction. Formic acid is an excellent de-scaling agent as well, and is used in industrial cleaning to remove mineral deposits from desalination plants, refineries and other processing industries.
 
“The new plant further strengthens our position as a leading supplier of chemistry for sustainable solutions”, said Dr. Hans Engel, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE, Chief Financial Officer, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BASF Corporation, made the announcement during a press conference at BASF’s new regional headquarters building in Florham Park, N.J.
 
“This investment demonstrates our commitment to the increasing market demand in North and South America driven by current and new applications of the versatile formic acid. We will be able to serve our customers better with shorter lead times and greater supply reliability. It also reinforces BASF’s global leading position in formic acid with production in Europe, North America and Asia”, said Soeren Hildebrandt, Senior Vice President of BASF’s Intermediates division.
 
In line with the company’s “We create chemistry” strategy, BASF focuses on sustainable products such as formic acid, which not only has an excellent eco-profile in its applications, but also in its production as part of the company’s Verbund concept. This concept is one of BASF’s greatest strengths, linking production and energy requirements in an efficient manner. BASF’s Geismar production site incorporates the Verbund concept and allows BASF to maximize production efficiencies of formic acid while helping to protect the environment by reducing waste and cutting emissions, and keeping resource consumption and transportation to a minimum.


2012-06-28 BASF    

BASF and Oleon celebrate grand opening of propylene glycol production plant
 
World’s first plant of its type started up in Ertvelde, Belgium
Unique manufacturing process using sustainable by-products to produce PG

The oleochemical company Oleon has started up a new manufacturing plant for producing bio propylene glycol (PG) from glycerin in Ertvelde, Belgium.

The plant is the first of its type worldwide, leveraging a highly sustainable production process developed and licensed by BASF and jointly realized with Oleon. A grand opening celebration was held at the plant on Thursday, June 28, attracting more than 120 attendees, including local and regional government officials, BASF and Oleon leaders and Ertvelde site employees.

Historically, PG has been produced by means of hydrolysis from propylene oxide, which is obtained from crude oil. The starting material employed at the Ertvelde site is glycerin, primarily obtained from fats and oils generated as by-products of oleochemical production. As an additional benefit, the glycerin-based process used at the Ertvelde site requires fewer production steps than hydrolysis, increasing the efficiency of Oleon’s bio PG production.

BASF not only researched the glycerin-based production technology it realized with Oleon, but also supplies the chemical catalysts that are key enablers for the advanced bio PG production process.

“We’re proud to have worked with Oleon to bring this innovative production technology to market,” said Michael Baier, Vice President, Process Catalysts & Technologies with BASF’s Catalysts division. “Moving forward, using glycerin as a starting substance, bio PG production is possible in a far more sustainable way. This is a perfect example of how BASF creates chemistry for a sustainable future.”

PG is a versatile alcohol contained in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, as well as solvents and plasticizers.

“We do what others talk about,” said Chris Depreeuw, Managing Director of Oleon in Ertvelde. “Everybody is talking about bio and green chemistry, Oleon is already implementing new innovative technology. Thanks to the strong collaboration with BASF, we were able to realize a new process to produce propylene glycol in Ertvelde from a renewable source.”

About Oleon

Oleon is the leading oleochemical company in Europe. Oleon employs 700 people and its sales exceed 600 million euros. Oleon has branches in Flanders (Ertvelde and Oelegem), Germany, Norway, France and Malaysia. Since 2009 Oleon has been part of the Sofiprotéol group, the financial-industrial arm of the French vegetable oils and proteins industry.


2012-07-04 BASF

BASF to build butadiene extraction plant in Antwerp

Securing BASF´s internal supply with butadiene in Europe
Taking advantage of opportunities on the external market
Strengthening Verbund production at Antwerp site
Startup planned for 2014

BASF plans to build a butadiene extraction plant at its Verbund site in Antwerp, Belgium. The plant will have an annual production capacity of 155,000 metric tons and is scheduled to start up during 2014. The investment amount will be in the high double-digit million euro range.

The decision has been made in light of the increasingly tight supplies of butadiene on global markets. In recent years, the volumes of butadiene available on the market have declined sharply. At the same time, demand from the tire industry and other industries has been rising. This has led to a considerable increase in prices.

“With the plant, we will secure our supply of butadiene at a competitive cost,” said Dr. Uwe Kirchgäßner, head of BASF’s regional business unit Basic Petrochemicals Europe. “Furthermore, we will take advantage of opportunities on the attractive external market and thereby contribute to our long-term economic success,” Kirchgäßner added.

The butadiene will be extracted from crude C4, a product from the steam cracker. “This plant strengthens our Verbund production in Antwerp and is a very important investment at the site,” said Wouter de Geest, CEO of BASF Antwerpen NV. “By improving the integration of the C4 value chain, we will also be able to reduce the need for logistics as well as traffic,” added de Geest. Through the investment about 15 to 20 jobs will be created.

In Europe, BASF already operates a butadiene extraction plant at its Verbund site in Ludwigshafen, Germany, with an annual production capacity of 105,000 metric tons. Butadiene is a raw material that can be used to produce synthetic rubber, among other applications. The tire industry is one of the main consumers of butadiene. Other applications for butadiene include paper chemicals and plastics production.


2012-08-17 BASF 

BASF, Cargill and Novozymes target commercial bio-based acrylic acid process
 

Joint R&D cooperation to develop an industrial biotechnology-based production process for acrylic acid from renewable raw materials
Key raw material for the production of bio-based superabsorbents for baby diapers

BASF, Cargill and Novozymes have signed an agreement to develop technologies to produce acrylic acid from renewable raw materials.

Presently, acrylic acid is produced by the oxidation of propylene derived from the refining of crude oil. BASF – The Chemical Company, Cargill and industrial biotechnology company Novozymes will develop bio-based technologies to produce acrylic acid from renewable feedstocks.

“The cooperation combines BASF’s global market strength and innovation power with the excellent know-how and competencies of Novozymes and Cargill who are global leaders in their respective industry segments. Together we are uniquely positioned to more sustainably meet market and society needs”, said Michael Heinz, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE.

New milestone towards commercialization
Novozymes and Cargill have collaborated on renewable acrylic acid technology since 2008. Both companies have worked to develop microorganisms that can efficiently convert renewable feedstock into 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP), which is one possible chemical precursor to acrylic acid.

CargillNovozymes は20081、再生可能原料から3-ヒドロキシプロピオン酸(3HPA)を経由してアクリル酸を製造する技術を共同で開発する契約を締結したと発表した。
米エネルギー省から
150万ドルの支援を受ける。

バイオ技術でつくった微生物を使用して砂糖を発酵させて3HPAに変換する。
3HPAはその後、アクリル酸を含む幅広い化学製品に変えられる。

BASF has now joined the collaboration to develop the process for conversion of 3-HP into acrylic acid. BASF is the world´s largest producer of acrylic acid and has substantial capabilities in its production and downstream processing. The company plans initially to use the bio-based acrylic acid to manufacture superabsorbent polymers.

In the process to be developed by Novozymes and Cargill, will be converted to 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3HPA) by . This conversion is a multi-step enzymatic reaction within the cells of the micro-organism. 3HPA from the fermentation can then be recovered and transformed into chemical derivatives, such as acrylic acid.

The three companies bring complementary knowledge to the project. Novozymes, the world-leader in industrial enzymes, has years of experience with developing technologies for bio-based production of chemicals used in plastics, ingredients, etc.

“BASF and Cargill are global leaders in their industries and we are very excited to partner with them,” says Novozymes CEO Steen Riisgaard. “By offering bio-based alternatives to fossil-based products we will take a big step towards a more sustainable economy.”

“Cargill is pleased to bring its global expertise in sourcing renewable feedstocks and large-scale fermentation to this collaborative project”, said Chris Mallett, Cargill Corporate Vice President of research and development. “The work with BASF and Novozymes underscores our commitment to developing innovative new technologies that help our customers meet their business objectives.”

Acrylic acid is a high-volume chemical that feeds into a broad range of products. One of the main applications is in the manufacture of superabsorbent polymers that can soak up large amounts of liquid and are used mainly in baby diapers and other hygiene products. Acrylic acid is also used in adhesive raw materials and coatings. The annual global market volume of acrylic acid is around 4.5 million tons with a value of $11 billion1 at the end of 2011. The market has been growing at a rate of 4 percent per year.

About Novozymes
Novozymes is the world leader in bioinnovation. Together with customers across a broad array of industries Novozymes creates tomorrow’s industrial biosolutions, improving its customers' business and the use of our planet's resources.

With over 700 products used in 130 countries, Novozymes’ bioinnovations increase industrial performance and safeguard the world’s resources by offering superior and sustainable solutions for tomorrow’s ever-changing marketplace. Read more at www.novozymes.com.

 


2012/9/5 .equities.com     

United States : BASF and Total Petrochemicals & Refining USA Inc agree to change JV name

BASF Corporation has entered into an agreement with Total Petrochemicals & Refining USA, Inc.  for the merger of two joint ventures and to change the name of the merged venture to BASF TOTAL Petrochemicals LLC for the companies' Port Arthur, Texas, joint operations.

This agreement combines the joint ventures that were earlier identified as
BASF FINA Petrochemicals Limited Partnership (BASF 60%、Total 40%)  and
Sabina Petrochemicals LLC  (BASF 60%、Total 40%、Shell 離脱)

Heidi Alderman, Senior Vice President of BASF's North American Petrochemicals Business said, "This structure change was done to simplify the joint venture operations into one legal entity that reflected the current ownership of the facility. BASF and TPRI remain strongly committed to the Port Arthur facility and will invest significant capital in the site over the next few years."

In this joint venture 60% ownership is retain by BASF and 40% by TPRI.

One of the world's largest C4 complexes is operated by a tri-venture named Sabina Petrochemicals LLC between Shell, BASF and TPRI at the Port Arthur site. BASF and TPRI were the alone members with the same ownership shares (60 percent and 40 percent), when Shell exited the venture on August 1, 2011.

Geoffroy Petit, Vice President, Refining and Base Chemicals for Total Petrochemicals & Refining USA, Inc., "The new name reflects the strong partnership between TPRI and BASF as well as reinforces the commitment to strengthen the synergies between the two facilities."

BASF Corporation and Total Petrochemicals & Refining USA, Inc. formed the joint venture BASF TOTAL Petrochemicals LLC, which have Port Arthur facility that runs one of the largest steam crackers in the world, turning naphtha and light hydrocarbons into ethylene, propylene and other chemical raw materials.


2012-09-18  BASF 

BASF focuses global EPS business on strategic markets

Closure of Styropor® plants in Malaysia and India
Preparation of strategic measures for Styropor® business in South America
Strong market potential for Neopor® with improved insulation properties

In light of high overcapacities and low margins in some regions, BASF is focusing its global Styropor® (EPS: expandable polystyrene) activities on strategic markets and core products with better profitability.

“These measures are part of BASF’s global strategy to foster value-oriented growth and will ensure that we remain competitive in markets where we add long-term value both to our customers’ businesses and to BASF,” said Wolfgang Hapke, president of BASF’s Performance Polymers Division.

BASF will shut down the Styropor® plants at its sites in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia and Thane, India. The plan is to stop production by the end of the year. Currently a total of 60 and 55 employees work with EPS at Pasir Gudang and Thane, respectively. The combined annual EPS production capacity of the two plants is more than 100,000 metric tons. BASF will work with employees affected by the shutdowns to find the right transition plan.

“The closure of BASF’s Styropor® plants in Malaysia and India has become inevitable due to the high EPS overcapacities in Asia Pacific that have developed in recent years. These overcapacities have led to extremely low margins which make our operations in India and Malaysia uneconomic,” explained Giorgio Greening, Head of the Global Business Unit Foams.

In South America, BASF is preparing strategic steps. BASF has started the preparation of a carve-out of the Styropor® business and production at its sites in Argentina and Brazil.
In Chile, BASF is evaluating strategic options for the EPS business and is preparing a divestment of Aislapol, BASF’s EPS foam parts producer. The Styropor® business in South America has around 80 employees and an annual production capacity of 83,500 metric tons. Aislapol has around 175 employees.

“Globally, we are focusing our EPS investments on Neopor®. The carve-out of the Styropor® business in Brazil and Argentina will help us to be flexible with regards to future strategic options. For the Styropor® business in Chile the strategic evaluation is still underway. For Aislapol the best option is to find a strategic investor who is committed to the EPS foaming business,” Greening added.

Neopor断熱材はStyroporを改良した断熱材で、特殊な黒鉛粒子を練り込んで、それが熱線を反射することで、断熱効果を高め建物からの熱の損失を防ぐ。
ネオポールは、スタイロポールとの比較で最大20%も高い断熱. 特性を誇る。

Due to its properties as packaging material and its cost-efficient insulation performance, EPS is a product that has been widely accepted in various applications for several decades and still is enjoying growth rates similar to that of GDP.

BASF will focus its global Styropor® activities on core markets and will further push the growth with Neopor®, the silver-gray colored product with improved insulation properties, enhanced by its graphite content. It contributes significantly to energy efficiency in buildings and houses while reducing CO2 emissions. Neopor®, which is produced at BASF sites in South Korea and Germany, plays a key role in BASF’s strategy to focus on profitable markets and products.
 


2012-10-12 BASF

BASF to acquire parts of Ciech’s TDI business

BASF and Ciech today announced the acquisition of parts of Ciech’s global TDI (toluene diisocyanate) business by BASF. The acquisition is subject to approval by the appropriate antitrust authorities. Closing of the transaction is expected in the first quarter of 2013. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

The agreement involves parts of Ciech’s worldwide TDI business. Production facility of Ciech’s subsidiary Zachem, Poland, is not part of the transaction. Ciech and BASF will cooperate closely to facilitate an effective transition of supply agreements and support services for Ciech’s TDI customers.

“This acquisition underlines our strong commitment to the TDI markets in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and worldwide”, said Raimar Jahn, President of BASF’s Polyurethanes division. “We are looking forward to establishing a successful partnership with Ciech’s customers.” BASF’s strong commitment to the TDI business is also illustrated by the construction of the world’s largest single-train TDI plant in Ludwigshafen.

Dariusz Krawczyk, President of the Management Board of Ciech, added: “We are confident that with BASF we have found the ideal purchaser of our TDI business. Our customers will benefit from BASF’s broad knowledge and experience in the polyurethanes market and its strong global set-up.”

TDI is a key component for the polyurethanes industry. To a large extent it is used in the furniture segment (e.g. flexible foams for mattresses, cushions or wood coating) as well as in the automotive industry (e.g. seating cushions and interior applications).

BASF is a leading supplier of basic products for polyurethanes and operates TDI plants in Geismar, Louisiana; Yeosu, Korea; Caojing, China; Schwarzheide, Germany; and as of 2014 in Ludwigshafen, Germany.

About Ciech
The Ciech Chemical Group is one of the leaders of the European chemical market. It consists of eight production entities and service companies. The Group has a well-developed production structure and business network in Poland, Europe and Asia. The main Group’s products include soda ash, baking soda, salt, fertilizers, plant protection chemicals, epoxy and polyester resins and other organic chemical products used in the glassmaking, furniture, chemical, construction and agricultural industries. With annual revenues of approximately PLN 4 billion, the Ciech Chemical Group is among the 50 largest Polish enterprises.
Since February 2005 Ciech SA has been listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. The largest shareholders of the company include the State Treasury (38.7% of stocks and votes on General Meeting) and Pioneer Pekao Investment Management SA, and Open-End Pension Fund PZU “Złota Jesień”, ING Open-End Pension Fund. More information at www.ciech.com.


2012-10-22 BASF 

BASF subsidiary Wintershall and Statoil agree on asset swap

BASF Group company Wintershall is substantially expanding its production and reserves of oil and gas in the North Sea. Through an asset swap, Wintershall will receive from the Norwegian Statoil ASA shares in the three producing fields Brage (32.7 percent), Gjøa (15 percent) and Vega (30 percent), containing reserves (2P) of around 100 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe). In addition, it is the joint intention of the companies that Wintershall takes over the operatorship of Brage, its first large production platform offshore Norway, subject to the agreement of the authorities and partners. A respective agreement was signed by Statoil and Wintershall today in Stavanger, Norway.

Through the transaction, Wintershall Norge will raise its daily production from currently around 3,000 boe to almost 40,000 boe per day next year. In return, Statoil will receive a 15-percent share in the development project Edvard Grieg from Wintershall and financial compensation of US$1.35 billion. An additional payment of up to US$100 million will be paid contingent on the successful future development of the Vega field.

“Through the cooperation with Statoil, we are taking a big step forward in realizing our growth strategy in Oil & Gas and expanding our activities at the source. This enables Wintershall to become one of the leading producers in Norway and balances its global portfolio even more effectively,” said Dr. Kurt Bock, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE.

“With our ambition to become the new operator of Brage, we are making headway in expanding Wintershall-operated production in Norway. We want to be active on the shelf in the long-term, establish ourselves as a partner – and take on responsibility,” explained Rainer Seele, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Wintershall. Wintershall has positioned itself successfully in Norway as an integrated exploration and production company following the acquisition of Revus Energy in 2008. With more than 40 licenses, the company is already one of the largest license holders in Norway.

“The Norwegian continental shelf is a world class oil and gas region. Statoil is the largest operator with 48 developed fields and a strong exploration portfolio. We have made four major discoveries on the NCS over the past 19 months, and we continue to increase the oil recovery from mature fields. Today’s transaction frees up resources for Statoil to continue driving high value growth. We are also pleased to enter a strategic partnership with Wintershall to develop new insights and technologies for increased value creation,” said Helge Lund, President and CEO of Statoil.

In addition, the companies have agreed to cooperate in research activities to increase production from oil fields through Enhance Oil Recovery (EOR) and to examine the offshore application of the innovative technology “Schizophyllan” being developed by Wintershall and BASF. Wintershall and Statoil also agreed to conduct research together into unconventional resources in Germany and internationally. Accordingly Statoil is to receive a 49 percent share in the Wintershall concessions “Rheinland” and “Ruhr” in Germany.

 


2012/11/12  AP  

BASF to Build New Plant in Freeport, Texas to Manufacture Emulsion Polymers

BASF announced its plans to build a new production plant for emulsion polymers at its integrated "Verbund" site in Freeport, Texas. The new plant will allow BASF to better serve the coatings, construction, adhesives, and paper industries by expanding the network of manufacturing locations and improve the backward integration of raw materials used in production.

The new plant, which is expected to begin production in mid-2014, will create approximately 25 new jobs at the Freeport site.

"The new plant strengthens our position as a leading supplier of emulsions in North America and demonstrates our commitment to customers in the coatings, construction, adhesives and paper industries," said Derek Fairclough, Senior Vice President, Dispersions & Pigments, for BASF in North America. "This investment further supports our business growth strategy, especially in architectural coatings, where we are targeting significant growth with our range of innovative products and solutions."

The plant will manufacture acrylic emulsion polymers used for architectural coatings, construction chemicals, adhesives, and the paper chemicals industry.

"This investment demonstrates BASF's commitment to the regional market demand by paper and board manufacturers for these materials and supports our global strategy to be the preferred supplier of polymer emulsions for the coated paper and board markets," said Chuck Schmidt, Senior Vice President, Paper Chemicals, for BASF in North America.

BASF currently operates three emulsion polymer plants in North America in Monaca, Pennsylvania; Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Altamira, Mexico. Building a plant in Texas broadens the supply network to better serve all BASF customers from a manufacturing location in the central-southern United States. In addition to this investment, BASF is building new manufacturing facilities for emulsion polymers in India and the company also opened new plants in South Africa in September 2012 and in China in November 2012.

The Verbund concept is one of BASF's greatest strengths, linking production and energy requirements in an efficient manner. BASF's Freeport, Texas production site incorporates the Verbund concept and allows BASF to maximize the production efficiencies of acrylic dispersions while helping to protect the environment and surrounding communities by reducing waste, cutting emissions, and keeping resource consumption and transportation to a minimum.


2012-11-21 BASF 

BASF announces cash offer to acquire Pronova BioPharma

BASF to achieve leading position in omega-3 fatty acids
Cash offer of NOK 12.50 per share
Offer unanimously recommended by Pronova’s Board of Directors and management
Pre-acceptance by approximately 60% of share capital

BASF plans to acquire Pronova BioPharma ASA, Lysaker, Norway, a pioneer in the field of research, development, and manufacturing of omega-3 fatty acids. BASF has reached an agreement with Pronova to make a recommended voluntary public takeover offer to Pronova’s shareholders, and will offer to pay NOK 12.50 in cash for each Pronova share. The Board of Directors of Pronova and the management unanimously support BASF’s offer and recommend its acceptance.

In addition, BASF has obtained irrevocable pre-acceptance commitments for approximately 60% of Pronova’s share capital; including the 50.0% stake held by majority shareholders Herkules Private Equity Fund (held through its funds Herkules Private Equity (Jersey-I) L.P. and Herkules Private Equity (Jersey-II) L.P.), an approximately 9.1% stake indirectly controlled by investment firms Kistefos AS and Kistefos Investment AS and 0.3% held by members of the Board of Directors and management of Pronova.

The offer corresponds to a premium of 24% above the volume-weighted average share price for Pronova’s shares in the six months prior to announcement of the public takeover offer. Based on all outstanding shares and including all net financial liabilities, the enterprise value would be NOK 4,845 million (approximately €664 million).

“The intended acquisition will significantly strengthen our position in the fast growing and highly profitable market for omega-3 fatty acids. We want to combine the global market reach and experience of BASF with the know-how of Pronova in omega-3 fatty acids,” said Michael Heinz, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and responsible for the Performance Products segment, which includes the Nutrition & Health division.

Highly concentrated omega-3 fatty acids are a globally growing market, driven by an increasing consumer awareness of omega-3 fatty acids health benefits. With the acquisition of Pronova BASF will immediately achieve a leading position in the global market for omega-3 fatty acids. Pronova’s active pharmaceutical ingredients are used to treat cardiovascular diseases such as post-myocardial infarction. In nutritional applications, including dietary supplements, there is a strong body of evidence supporting a broad range of positive health benefits through omega-3 fatty acids, for example, in the areas of cognitive development or heart health.

The acquisition will be financed by way of available resources of BASF. The offer will be made by BASF’s wholly-owned subsidiary BASF AS in Norway and will be subject to certain conditions, including inter alia that shareholders shall in the aggregate have accepted the offer for a number of shares representing more than 90% of the total share capital of Pronova, and the same amount of votes which can be exercised in the general meeting of Pronova and that there shall have been no occurrence of a material adverse change. The offer will also be subject to approval by the relevant merger control authorities. The complete details of the offer, including all terms and conditions, will be included in an offer document complying with the requirements of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act, which is expected to be sent to Pronova’s shareholders on or about December 5, 2012. BASF expects to finalize the transaction in the first quarter of 2013.

脂肪酸 飽和脂肪酸  
不飽和脂肪酸 オメガ3(n-3系脂肪酸)
オメガ6(n-6系脂肪酸)
オメガ9

はとに分けられます。

不飽和脂肪酸は、その構造から、、に分類されます。

青魚に含まれるDHA・EPAやえごまに含まれるα-リノレン酸は、オメガ3に分類される脂肪酸で、この脂肪酸は細胞が正しく機能するためには不可欠なものであることがわかってきた。

オメガ3(DHAやEPA)には、血液中の脂質濃度を下げる働きがあるといわれている。


2013-01-15 BASF 

BASF increases cash offer for Pronova BioPharma

BASF  confirms its offer to acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of Pronova BioPharma ASA, Lysaker, Norway,, and is increasing its cash offer price to NOK 13.50 per share (previously NOK 12.50). The offer period expires at 16:30 CET on January 18, 2013 and will not be extended.

The increased offer corresponds to a premium of 34% above the volume-weighted average share price for Pronova’s shares in the six months prior to announcement of the public takeover offer. Based on all outstanding shares and including all net financial liabilities, the enterprise value would be NOK 4,996 million (approximately €684 million).

“We thank all those shareholders of Pronova who have accepted the offer to date. Following a comprehensive due diligence review and taking into account the opportunities and foreseeable risks in Pronova’s business this increased offer is our last, best and final offer,” said Michael Heinz, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and responsible for the Performance Products segment, which includes the Nutrition & Health division. “We believe that our offer represents the full and fair value to all shareholders and that it provides the best solution for Pronova’s stakeholders.”


2013-01-22 BASF 

BASF and Sinopec take next steps in establishment of world-scale isononanol plant in Maoming, China
  Start of production expected in 2015
  China’s first INA plant provides important feedstock for next-generation plasticizers

BASF and China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (“Sinopec”) have completed a joint feasibility study and taken the next steps in the establishment of a world-scale isononanol (INA:イソノナノール、イソノニルアルコール) plant in Maoming, Guangdong, China. Under the terms of the feasibility study, a new 50-50 joint venture will be formed, BASF MPCC Co. Ltd. Pre-approval has been received from the Maoming Administration of Industry and Commerce for the name of the venture. The partners expect to begin production at the new plant around the middle of 2015.

The full integration of the new INA plant into the existing petrochemical site of MPCC茂名石化 in Maoming will allow for a comprehensive system for managing energy as well as minimizing water use, emissions, and waste. The approval process has begun for the environmental impact assessment.

“The completion of the joint feasibility study marks an important milestone for our INA business, helping us serve the increasing demand for next-generation plasticizers in China. Integration into the MPCC operations also allows for a very competitive feedstock supply,” said Dr. Albert Heuser, President, Asia Pacific, BASF.

INA is used as feedstock for the production of next generation plasticizers, including diisononyl phthalate (DINP) and non-phthalate plasticizer Hexamoll® DINCH®.

BASF and Sinopec jointly operate BASF-YPC Co. Ltd., a 50-50 joint venture between BASF and Sinopec in Nanjing, China. As one of China's largest petrochemical joint ventures, it produces a wide range of high quality chemicals for the rapidly growing Chinese market.


2013-03-05 BASF 

BASF and Markor plan to establish two joint ventures for butanediol and polytetrahydrofuran in China

Local production to support customers in the Chinese market
Markor is the leading butanediol producer in China
BASF is the globally leading producer of butanediol and polytetrahydrofuran

BASF and Xinjiang Markor Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. (Markor:新疆美克化工) plan to establish two joint ventures for the production of butanediol (BDO) and polytetrahydrofuran (PolyTHF® , chemical name: polytetramethylene ether glycol ) in Korla庫爾勒市, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, Northwest China. The joint venture agreements have already been signed but are subject to further closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

BASFのTHFの生産拠点はドイツのLudwigshafen、米国のGeismar、中国の上海、マレーシアのKuantan の4箇所。
上海
以外は他社と同様に1,4-ブタンジオールを原料としてTHFを製造している。
2002年5月、BASFは上海のCaojing
にある上海化学工業団地に、年産6万トンのPolyTHFおよび年産8万トンのTHFの統合生産設備を新設すると発表した。ここでは BASFが新たに開発したブタンから直接THFを生産し、その後PolyTHFを生産するという独自の技術を初めて採用することとした。従来必要とされていた1.4-ブタンジオールの中間工程を省略することができる。

BDOの生産拠点はこれらのほか、千葉の5箇所で、BDOの能力は世界全体で535千トンとなっている。
またPolyTHFの生産拠点はウルサンとLudwigshafen、Geismar、上海で、能力は185千トンとなっている。

今回の生産再開に当たり、新しい設備を追加し、THFの原料としてブタンのほか
1.4-ブタンジオールの使用も出来るようにした。
更に、THFとともに、無水マレイン酸の製造も可能となる。2010年初めからの実施を考えている。

2007/10/18 BASF、上海でのTHF製造再開

  BDO THF PolyTHF  
Ulsan (Korea)  ○→X  ○→X  ○ 今回 BDOTHF停止
Ludwigshafen (Germany)  ○  ○  ○  
Feluy (Belgium)  X     2005年停止
Geismar (USA)  ○  ○  ○  
Caojing (China)  ○  ○  ○  
Kuantan (Malaysia)  ○  ○   BASF Petronas
千葉  ○     BASF千葉:BASF 67%(当初は50/50の出光BASF
四日市    X  X 2006年停止

2009/1/20 BASF、韓国のBDO、THFプラントを永久停止

ポリウレタン繊維←PTMG(polyTHF)←THF ←1,4-ブタンジオール

 The joint venture companies intend to build a plant for the production of BDO and one for PolyTHF which are planned to go on stream in 2015. The annual capacities of the plants located in Korla will be 100,000 tons of BDO and 50,000 tons of PolyTHF.

 “Based on our globally leading PolyTHF technology and the strong local presence of Markor in China, we are aiming to expand our local production capacity in order to support our customers in the Chinese market with high quality products,” said Dr. Guido Voit, Senior Vice President, responsible for the region Asia Pacific within BASF’s Intermediates division. 

  We are glad to partner with BASF, who provides its state-of-the-art PolyTHF technology to the joint ventures. Thanks to our integrated value chain, we can achieve great synergies, enabling us to serve our customers better. We look forward to working with BASF to further expand our joint business in China,” said Mr. He Xiaorong, Vice President of Markor Group.

 PolyTHF is primarily used to make elastic spandex fibers for a large variety of textiles, including underwear, outerwear, sportswear and swimsuits. It also serves as a chemical building block for thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) used to make hoses, films and cable sheathing. Other applications include thermoplastic polyetheresters, polyetheramides and cast elastomers for the production of for example wheels for skateboards and inline skates. BDO is used in the manufacturing of technical plastics, polyurethanes, solvents, electronic chemicals and elastic fibres.

 BASF produces PolyTHF with an annual capacity of 250,000 tons at its sites in Geismar, Louisiana, USA; Ludwigshafen, Germany; Ulsan, Korea and Shanghai, Caojing, China. BASF produces BDO with an annual capacity of 535,000 tons at its sites in Geismar; Ludwigshafen; Caojing; Chiba, Japan and Kuantan, Malaysia.

 Markor currently produces BDO with an annual capacity of 160,000 tons and is the largest producer of BDO in China. To date, the company has invested RMB 5 billion (about €600 million) in Markor Chemical Park.

 About Markor

Xinjiang Markor Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. is a subsidiary of Markor Investment Group Co., Ltd. which was founded in 2004. It is located in Markor Chemical Park in Economic and Technological Development zone, Korla, Xinjiang, China. By leveraging the comprehensive advantages of local natural gas resources in Korla, Markor’s BDO production has achieved outstanding performance in energy saving and environmental protection. Markor is one of the leading manufacturers in the BDO downstream market, and has achieved outstanding performance in product quality and customer service.


Mar 11, 2013 Reuters                                         2010/8/25 ブラジル裁判所、Shell とBASFに多額の罰金

Shell, BASF agree to pay-out over Brazil chemical contamination

Oil producer Shell and German chemical company BASF agreed on Monday to pay compensation that could reach 620 million reais ($316 million) to workers exposed over three decades to toxic chemicals at a Brazil plant, prosecutors said.    

2010  622百万レアル(354百万米ドル)の罰金を命じた。  0.567
2013   0.509


Brazil's public Labour prosecution service said 60 people were killed from prolonged exposure to chemicals used to make pesticides at the plant. The factory began operating in the 1970s in Paulinia in Sao Paulo state until government authorities ordered it to shut down in 2002.

The companies have agreed to pay individual compensation to 1,068 former workers at the plant and provide them with lifetime medical care, which prosecutors estimated could total up to 420 million reais.

Shell and BASF would also make a separate 200 million reais payment for collective moral damages which would be used to build a maternity clinic in Paulinia and for donations to special health centres.

Shell has maintained throughout the case, brought in 2007, that it believed there was no link between the operations at the plant and injury to workers' health, but it said it regretted the environmental contamination that occurred.

Seventy-six workers pursuing individual court action must also decide within 30 days whether to take the compensation offer which would require them to drop their own cases.

Shell built and operated the factory until it sold it to chemicals company Cyanamid in 1995, which in turn sold it to BASF in 2000. BASF produced pesticides at the plant for only two years before it was shut down.

Shell became the owner of the site again in 2008 when it bought it from BASF but the plant remains shut.

Spokespeople for Shell and BASF based in Brazil confirmed the two companies had agreed to the compensation deal, whose total amount would be worked out over the next 10 days.

Gislaine Rossetti, a spokeswoman at BASF, told Reuters the companies would not disclose the proportion of the total compensation each would pay. Shell would be solely responsible for reparations linked to soil pollution, she said.


2013-07-09 BASF

BASF to increase global capacities for butanediol and PolyTHF

Annual butanediol capacity will reach 650,000 metric tons
Annual PolyTHF capacity will rise to 350,000 metric tons
BASF to strengthen position as global leader for butanediol and its derivatives

BASF will increase its global capacities for producing the chemical intermediate 1,4‑butanediol (BDO) and the BDO derivative PolyTHF® (chemical name: polytetramethylene ether glycol, PTMEG) within the coming two years. BASF’s annual BDO capacity will rise from 535,000 to 650,000 metric tons, its annual PolyTHF capacity from 250,000 to 350,000 metric tons. With respect to PolyTHF, BASF had already announced a capacity increase from 185,000 to 250,000 metric tons per year in August 2012.

The company continuously expands its production capacities by implementing measures to boost efficiency and improve its infrastructure. These measures include, in particular, investments in the double-digit million euro range to increase capacity for BDO operations at BASF’s Geismar, Louisiana, site, and for PolyTHF operations at the Caojing, China, site.

Part of the announced capacity increase will be a BDO and a PolyTHF plant located at Korla, China. As recently announced these plants will be built by two joint venture companies established by BASF and Xinjiang Markor Chemical Industry Co. Ltd. The plants will be capable of manufacturing annually 100,000 metric tons of BDO and 50,000 metric tons of PolyTHF. They are expected to begin operations in 2015. The companies intend to supply these high-quality products to their customers in the Chinese market.

2013/3/12   BASF、新疆美克化工とBDOとPolyTHFのJV

“By expanding our global BDO and PolyTHF capacities, we are moving in line with the steadily growing market and continually rising demand of our customers. The demand for BDO and PolyTHF has increased notably in the Americas. Our measures will enable us to continue meeting this demand reliably out of our local assets in Geismar,” said Sanjeev Gandhi, President, BASF Intermediates division, and added: “In the Asia Pacific region, the markets for PolyTHF continue to grow, and so do our customers. We are taking these measures to support our partners in their growth and accompany them as a reliable local manufacturer and supplier in the future too.”

BDO and its derivatives are used for producing plastics, solvents, electronic chemicals and elastic fibers. The starting materials for the production of conventional BDO are natural gas, butane, butadiene and propylene.

For 70 years, BASF has been manufacturing BDO at its Ludwigshafen, Germany, Verbund site by means of the Reppe process. This acetylene-based process, which is named after its inventor Walter Reppe, a chemist with BASF, features higher efficiency than any other process. Other BASF sites producing BDO and BDO derivatives are Geismar, Louisiana; Chiba, Japan; Kuantan, Malaysia; Caojing, China and Ulsan, Korea.

It was 30 years ago that BASF produced PolyTHF for the first time at its Ludwigshafen Verbund site. Today, four PolyTHF production facilities make BASF the world’s most important and only global supplier of PolyTHF.


2013 年7月29日 

BASF、中国に高性能ポリアミド「Ultramid®」の新工場を建設

  年間 100,000 トンの重合能力、 2015 年に稼働開始予定
  現地生産でアジアのポリアミド産業の成長に貢献

BASFは、中国・上海に年間 100,000 トンの重合能力を持つ、ポリアミド「 Ultramid® 」の製造工場を建設します。この新工場は、 2015 年に稼働開始を予定しています。

BASF 東アジア地域統括本部 アジア太平洋地域ファンクション担当プレジデント兼グレーター・チャイナプレジデント、アルベルト・ホイザーは次のように述べています。「 BASF は、長期戦略の一環として、アジア太平洋地域においてお客様の成長を今まで以上に支援し、より効率的なオペレーション、緊密な連携を実現するため、お客様の近くに生産拠点を置くことを目指しています。また、 BASF は、アジア太平洋地域における市場の成長率を 2% 上回る成長を目指しており、持続可能な将来のために、環境保護に対するコミットメントを強化し、社会に貢献していきます。」

BASF グローバルのポリアミド & 中間体ビジネスユニットのシニア・バイスプレジデント、ハーマン・アルトフは次のように述べています。「エンジニアリングプラスチック、繊維、フィルム産業におけるポリアミド製品に対する需要は、今後、特に中国において成長すると考えています。今回の新たな投資により、 BASF も業界とともに成長し、アジアのお客様に、現地で製造した高性能製品を提供できるようになります。」

今回の工場は、BASF が全額出資するものであり、中国・上海近郊の漕 (カオジン)にある上海化学工業区内に建設します。また、この工業区では、 BASF とパートナー企業が世界有数のイソシアネート統合コンビナートを運営しています。 また、同工業区内には、塗料・家具塗装産業や自動車触媒向けの貴金属に用いられるポリテトラヒドロフラン( PolyTHF® )の製造工場とポリイソシアネート( Basonat )の製造工場も所有しています。

----------

May 6, 2015 

BASF inaugurates new plant for high performance Ultramid® in China
  • Polymerization capacity of 100,000 metric tons per year
  • Local production supports growth of polyamide industry in Asia Pacific

BASF today inaugurated its new Ultramid® (polyamide 6 and 6/6.6) polymerization plant at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park in Shanghai, China. The new plant, with a capacity of 100,000 metric tons per year, will further strengthen BASF’s local production and supply network and better serve the growing market in Asia Pacific.

“This is the first investment in polyamide polymerization for BASF in Asia Pacific and shows our strong commitment to this market. The innovative production setup enables us to respond to our customers’ needs even quicker with more flexibility,” said Dr. Kurt Bock, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF.

“The demand for polyamide products in the engineering plastics, fiber and film industries will continue to grow strongly, particularly in China. With the local production facility, we are well-positioned to support our customers’ strong growth and help them to develop innovative products for tapping into market opportunities,” said Dr. Albert Heuser, President Functions Asia Pacific, President and Chairman Greater China, BASF.

The BASF wholly-owned plant was built at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park in Caojing which is also home to a world-scale facility for integrated isocyanates, operated by BASF and partners. At this location, BASF also has production plants for polytetrahydrofuran (PolyTHF) and polyisocyanate (Basonat®) for the coatings and furniture finishing industry, precious metal solutions for automotive catalysts, and an automotive coatings plant operated by BASF’s joint-venture company, BASF Shanghai Coatings Co., Ltd.

High performance Ultramid® products for the engineering plastics, film, fiber and monofilament industry
With more than 60 years of experience, BASF is the leading supplier of high quality polyamide and polyamide intermediates for the engineering plastics, film, fiber and monofilament industry. The line of products include Ultramid® B (polyamide 6), Ultramid® C (polyamide 6/6.6 copolymer), Ultramid® A (polyamide 6.6) and Ultramid® S Balance (polyamide 6.10). The product offerings are supplemented by technical services for the customers.

BASF operates Ultramid® polymerization plants also in Ludwigshafen, Germany; Antwerp, Belgium; Freeport, USA; and São Paulo, Brazil. The production of polyamide for film, textile and carpet fiber as well as for engineering plastics applications is integrated into BASF’s global Verbund structure with polyamide intermediates (i.e. adipic acid, anolone, caprolactam), chemical raw materials (i.e. ammonia, cyclohexane, sulfuric acid), energy, by-product recovery, logistics and other services.

 

 


2013-09-20  BASF 

BASF announces cash offer to acquire specialized enzyme biotechnology company Verenium

Cash offer of US$4.00 per share
Proposed transaction strengthens position in strategic growth market for enzymes

BASF today announced that its U.S. affiliate, BASF Corporation, has entered into an agreement to commence a cash tender offer for all of the outstanding shares of common stock of the biotechnology company Verenium Corporation  for US$4.00 per share. Based on all outstanding shares and including all net financial liabilities, the enterprise value would be approximately US$62 million (approximately €48 million).
Verenium is based in San Diego, California, and generated sales of US$57 million in 2012.

The offer corresponds to a premium of 56 percent above the volume-weighted average share price for Verenium’s shares in the six months prior to announcement of the transaction. The tender offer is subject to customary closing conditions, including the acquisition of a majority of Verenium’s shares outstanding as of the closing of the tender offer. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2013. BASF will finance the transaction out of operating cash.

The transaction has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies. Each of the directors and certain officers of Verenium have entered into support agreements and will tender all their shares.

Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts, enabling or accelerating biological and chemical processes. They are used in the development of sustainable solutions in a variety of applications, e.g. detergents, human and animal nutrition. Combining Verenium’s scientific and technological excellence with BASF’s enzyme activities and its global access into all relevant markets will strengthen BASF’s footprint in the strategic enzyme growth market.

---

‘We believe this deal should enhance the growth profile of BASF’s enzymes franchise, and herald a significant longer-term shift in the competitive landscape in industrial enzymes and agricultural enzymes for Novozymes and DuPont,’’ Laurence Alexander, an analyst at Jefferies, said in a note.

While small in size, BASF’s acquisition is a sign that Chief Executive Officer Kurt Bock is committed to breaking the stranglehold of the two leading rivals. Chemical companies use enzyme technology to produce ingredients and enhance the performance of products such as animal feeds and detergents. Verenium, which has collected microbes from diverse environments including volcanoes and rainforests, brings 10 industrial enzymes derived from bacteria and fungi.

Novozymes農業廃棄物をバイオ燃料にする酵素を生産しており、また、再生可能原料からアクリル酸を生産する計画でCargill 提携している。

CargillNovozymes は20081、再生可能原料から3-ヒドロキシプロピオン酸(3HPA)を経由してアクリル酸を製造する技術を共同で開発する契約を締結したと発表した。

 


米Verenium社は2012年3月26日、DSM Food Specialtiesへの植物油加工ビジネスの売却、食物・飲料市場で使用される酵素のライセンス、Verenium社が今後開発する新しい遺伝子ライブラリーへのアクセス権の供与を含む契約を締結したと発表した。Verenium社は関連経費を含み総額で3700万ドルをDSM社から受け取る。

---

今回取得したのは、ベレニウム社の油糧種子加工事業とIPポートフォリオ、特定食品用酵素に係るライセンス、ベレニウム社が独自技術で創出する生物多様性ライブラリーへのアクセス権などです。これらの事業の2012年の予想売上高は約1500万ドルで、その後の成長率は加速すると見込まれています。

DSMが買収したこれらの資産は、DSMニュートリション部門の事業戦略に完全に合致するものであり、「持続的な価値成長」およびDSMの食品用酵素事業とその能力の強化・拡大にフルに寄与するものです。これらの資産とライセンスの取得により、DSMは産業バイオテクノロジー事業(油糧種子加工など)を拡充し、食品用酵素の技術革新パイプラインを強化することができます。

ベレニウム社は本社を米国カリフォルニア州サンディエゴに置き、これまでに数多くの産業加工用高機能酵素製品や製品候補を創製してきました。ベレニウム社の酵素製品は産業加工工程で使用されている過酷化学物質を削減または代替することにより汚染を最小化することができ、同時に、顧客企業の加工工程の生産性も向上させます。

DSMはベレニウム社の油糧種子加工事業(研究開発ポートフォリオを含む)を取得し、業務提携も締結しました。この業務提携の一環として、ベレニウム社の社員の一部がDSMに転籍する予定です。ベレニウム社はPurifine® PLC という酵素を開発しましたが、この酵素を利用することによって、穀物由来油製造業者は、生産性や加工工程全般の経済効率を持続的に改善することができます。世界穀物由来油市場における酵素の今後の市場成長率は年率で約50%になると見込まれ、市場規模は3億5000万ドル以上に達すると予想されています。


2013-12-23 BASF

BASF and Gazprom sign asset swap agreement

BASF subsidiary Wintershallto increaseoil and gas production and exit gas trading and storage business
Completion of the transaction expected mid-2014

Today in Moscow, BASF and Gazprom signed the final agreement to swap assets of equivalent value. Through the swap, the BASF subsidiary Wintershall will further expand its production of oil and gas and exit the gas trading and storage business. The completion of the transaction is expected to take place mid-2014 and will be economically effective retroactively to April 1, 2013. Sales and earnings of BASF’s Natural Gas Trading business will continue to be reported in the Oil & Gas segment until completion. The transaction was approved by the European Commission at the beginning of December 2013.

Through the agreement, two additional blocks of the Achimov formation of the Urengoi natural gas and condensate field in western Siberia will be jointly developed. Wintershall, a 100% subsidiary of BASF, receives 25% plus one share of the blocks IV and V in the Achimov formation. According to the development plan confirmed by the Russian mining authority, blocks IV and V have total hydrocarbon resources of 274 billion cubic meters of natural gas and 74 million metric tons of condensate. This is equivalent to a total of 2.4 billion barrel of oil equivalent. An annual plateau production of at least 8 billion cubic meters of natural gas is expected from the two blocks. Start of production is planned for 2016.

In return, Wintershall will completely transfer the currently jointly operated natural gas trading and storage business to its long-term partner Gazprom. This includes the 50% shares in the gas trading companies WINGAS, WIEH (Wintershall Erdgashandelshaus Berlin) and WIEE (Wintershall Erdgashandelshaus Zug) including shares in the natural gas storage facilities in Rehden and Jemgum, Germany, as well as Haidach, Austria, and the gas storage operator astora. Gazprom will also receive a 50% share in the activities of Wintershall Noordzee B.V., which is active in the exploration and production of oil and gas in the southern North Sea (Netherlands, UK and Denmark). Together these activities contributed about €10 billion to sales and roughly €500 million to EBITDA of BASF Group in 2012. The partnership in the area of gas transportation activities will continue unchanged.

“The asset swap will allow us to focus on profitable growth at the source in our targeted oil and gas-rich regions,” said Dr. Kurt Bock, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE. “Through the joint development of additional blocks in the attractive Achimov formation, we will further expand our production of natural gas and condensate with our partner Gazprom.”

The expansion of activities at the source has already been successful. Since 2000, Wintershall’s production of crude oil and natural gas has increased from 80 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe) to 126 million boe [1] in 2012. By 2015, the company plans to increase production to at least 160 million boe. Especially the production of oil and gas in Russia and the northern North Sea is to be expanded.

OAO Gazprom is the world’s leading natural gas company specializing in the exploration, production, transport, storage, processing and marketing of natural gas and other hydrocarbons as well as energy generation. Gazprom’s gas reserves are estimated at 35.1 billion cubic meters, i.e. 72% of Russia’s and 18% of the world’s gas reserves. Gazprom is responsible for 74% of Russian and 14% of global natural gas production. Gazprom has a 26% share of gas supplies on the European market and sells gas to over 30 countries. Further information is available on the Internet at www.gazprom.com

Wintershall Holding GmbH , based in Kassel, Germany, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BASF in Ludwigshafen. The company has been active in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas for over 80 years. Wintershall focuses on selected core regions, where the company has built up a high level of regional and technological expertise. These are Europe, North Africa, South America, as well as Russia and the Caspian Sea region. In addition, these operations are complemented by the company’s growing exploration activities in the Arabian Gulf. Today, the company employs more than 2,500 staff worldwide from 40 nations and is now Germany’s largest crude oil and natural gas producer.

BASF is the world’s leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products and crop protection products to oil and gas. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Through science and innovation, we enable our customers in nearly every industry to meet the current and future needs of society. Our products and solutions contribute to conserving resources, ensuring nutrition and improving quality of life. We have summed up this contribution in our corporate purpose: We create chemistry for a sustainable future. BASF had sales of €72.1 billion in 2012 and more than 110,000 employees as of the end of the year. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com

[1] Restated figure for 2012, adjusted to changes in IFRS 10 and 11. The restated figure includes 50% of the Libyan onshore oil production.


2014-01-17  

 BASF opens first Ultrason plant outside of Germany

- World class facility in Yeosu, Korea to serve growing market demand for high performance specialty plastics in Asia Pacific
-
Capacity of 6,000 metric tons per year

BASF today announced it is inaugurating a new plant in Yeosu, Korea to strengthen the supply of Ultrason® polyarylsulfone, one of the company’s high performance thermoplastics. The new plant, with an annual production capacity of 6,000 metric tons, will better serve the growing market in Asia Pacific.

Ultrason®  ポリエーテルスルフォン/ポリスルフォン ( PES, PSU )  
ウルトラゾーン樹脂はポリスルフォンおよびポリエーテルスルフォンから生成される非晶質熱可塑性材料であり、極めて高い耐熱性をもっています。その広範囲に及ぶ有益な特性により、高品質のエンジニアリング部品や高負荷の量産品への成形が可能です。ウルトラゾーン樹脂は、熱可塑性材料に用いられる殆どすべて の技術によって、成形することができます。ウルトラゾーンSおよびウルトラゾーンEは、例えばナイロン、ポリカーボネート、ポリオキシメチレン、ポリ(ア ルキレン テレフタル酸)などの他のプラ スチックが要件を満たすことのできない用途にも、使用することができます。ウルトラゾーン樹脂は特に多様性に富んでいるため、熱硬化性材料、金属、セラミ ックに代えて使用することができます。

“The production of our high performance plastic specialty Ultrason in Korea supports our goal to locally produce approximately 75% of all BASF products we sell in Asia Pacific by 2020, and demonstrates our commitment to this fast growing market,” said Raimar Jahn, President, Performance Materials, BASF.

The new plant is the first of its kind to be built outside of Germany and brings the company’s global capacity of Ultrason polyarylsulfone to 18,000 metric tons per year. With this investment, BASF also creates 50 new jobs at its Yeosu site.

Ultrason is widely applied in the electronics, automotive and aerospace industries for the production of heat-resistant, lightweight components. Other popular Ultrason applications include membranes for water treatment, fittings for drinking water pipelines or food contact parts as in espresso machines, or microwave-proof dishes. Ultrason is also used in the production of carbon fiber composite materials.

“The Yeosu plant brings us closer to our customers in the region and enables us to better support the growth of key local industries – partly driven by the global development of many new Ultrason applications. Another important value proposition is shorter lead times,” said WooSung Shin, Managing Director, BASF Korea.

As one of the top three electrical and electronic goods manufacturing countries in the world, Korea is well positioned to benefit from local availability and production of Ultrason. By locating the site in Yeosu, BASF will also be able to serve other major markets for Ultrason such as China and Japan.

Ultrason is the trade name for the BASF product range of polyethersulfone (Ultrason ®  E), polysulfone (Ultrason ®   S), and polyphenylsulfone (Ultrason ®   P). The product can withstand temperatures up to 220 degrees centigrade without altering its properties, and possesses outstanding chemical stability.

 


2014-01-24

BASF and SINOPEC break ground on world-scale isononanol plant in Maoming, China

BASF and China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (SINOPEC) broke ground today on the construction of its world-scale isononanol (INA) plant in Maoming Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone, Maoming, China. At start-up in 2015, the plant, which is the first of its kind in China, will serve the increasing market demand for next-generation plasticizers. A newly-formed 50-50 joint venture company has been created, BASF MPCC Company Limited. The new plant will bring around 100 new jobs in Maoming.

“High quality and reliable plasticizers help underpin industrial growth, and with this plant we will be well positioned to serve China’s growing demands. Additionally, this project brings us a step closer to BASF’s strategic goal to better serve local industries with local production in Asia Pacific of approximately 75% by 2020. The new joint venture with SINOPEC also solidifies our already strong partnership, and demonstrates BASF’s long-term commitment to China,” said Dr. Albert Heuser, President, Functions Asia Pacific, President and Chairman, Greater China, BASF.

“This project is the first of its kind to bring BASF’s advanced INA technology into China, and to build a world-scale INA plant at Maoming Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone. It not only fills the country’s INA production gap, but also opens a new chapter for the strategic alliance between SINOPEC and BASF. It closely unites two strong parties in order to enjoy mutual benefits and develop business together, taking our relationship to a new level. I hope both shareholders continue to broaden our co-operation, and to explore how to further utilize SINOPEC Maoming, this area’s refinery products, and the public infrastructure, so as to maximize the production of BASF MPCC Company Limited and both shareholders’ business interests,” said Dr. Yu Xizhi, President of SINOPEC Corp. Maoming Company.

INA is used as the feedstock for the production of next generation plasticizers, including diisononyl phthalate (DINP) and non-phthalate plasticizer Hexamoll® DINCH®. DINP is widely used as a plasticizer in industrial applications such as automotive, wires, building and construction, while Hexamoll DINCH is BASF’s non-phthalate plasticizer for sensitive applications, including toys as well as food contact and medical applications. 

BASF and SINOPEC have a longtime partnership and jointly operate BASF-YPC Co. Ltd., a 50-50 joint venture formed in 2000 between BASF and SINOPEC in Nanjing, China.


2014/3/3 

BASF、中国・南京に世界規模の特殊アミン新工場を建設

    ・ BASFアジア太平洋地域初のジメチルアミノプロピルアミン(DMAPA)およびポリエーテルアミン(PEA)の生産拠点
 ・ 2015年末に稼動開始予定
    ・ DMAPAおよびPEAは、パーソナルケア用品、建設、風力発電、 コーティングなど様々な業種に提供

BASFは、当社が全額出資し建設する特殊アミンの世界規模の製造工場を、中国・南京ケミカルインダストリーパーク内に新設します。
同工場の主力製品は、ジメチルアミノプロピルアミン(DMAPA)およびポリエーテルアミン(PEA)で、2015年末までに稼働を予定しています。
新工場建設によりドイツと米国にある既存のDMAPAおよびPEA製造工場とともに、グローバルな製造ネットワークをより一層強化します。

「BASFは、DMAPAとPEAの世界的なリーディング・サプライヤーであり、今回の投資は、アジア太平洋地域の需要拡大に応えるという当社のコミットメントを示すものです。DMAPAとPEAを現地生産し、リードタイムを短縮することで、供給の信頼性を向上させ、これまで以上にお客様に貢献できると考えています」とBASF中間体事業本部プレジデントのサンジブ・ガンジーは述べています。

「この投資の背景は、中国やアジア諸国の中流階級によるパーソナルケア製品の消費が増加していることに起因します。また、中国やアジアの新興国では、建設、風力発電、コーティング業界の発展が続いていることから、PEA の需要はさらに拡大すると考えています」とBASF の中間体事業本部のアジア太平洋地域担当者であるシニア・バイス・プレジデントのギド・ボイトは述べています。

DMAPA は主に、シャンプーやボディソープなどのパーソナルケア製品に補助界面活性剤として使われるベタインの製造に用いられています。また、この他にも、染料中間体、潤滑油添加剤、電気メッキ、ゴムなどのカップリング剤として使われるなど、その用途は多岐にわたります。

PEA は、エポキシ樹脂硬化剤の化学中間体で、プラスチック、ポリウレアコーティング、接着剤、反応射出成形、風力発電用ブレードのコンポジット材料などの製造に用いられています。BASF は、Baxxodur®(バクソデュアー)というブランド名でポリエーテルアミンを提供しています。

BASF は、ドイツのルートヴィッヒスハーフェンと、米国のルイジアナ州ガイスマーの工場で、DMAPA とPEA を製造しています。

 


2014/3/3 

Succinity、バイオコハク酸の初の商業生産を開始
 ・ スペイン・モントメロで稼働開始

Corbion PuracとBASFの合弁会社であり、バイオコハク酸(
biobased succinic acid )の生産と商業化を行うSuccinity(サクシニティ、本社:ドイツ デュッセルドルフ)は、同社初となる商業生産設備の稼働開始を発表しました。

スペイン・モントメロのCorbion Puracの施設内あるこの工場は、年間生産能力1万トンで、グローバル市場向けにバイオコハク酸の商業生産を行います。
Succinityはこの工場に加えて、新たな大規模工場の建設を予定していますが、最終的な投資決定は、市場導入後に行われる予定です。

「Succinity®バイオコハク酸を製造する初めての工場の稼働開始は、将来、バイオコハク酸のリーディング・カンパニーになるという当社の計画を達成するうえで、重要です。モントメロのチームが持つ経験と、Corbion PuracおよびBASFの協力により、予定通りに稼働を開始することができました。この工場により、当社は成長著しいコハク酸市場に貢献することができると考えています」とSuccinityのマネージング・ディレクター フィリップ・ウォルターは述べています。

Succinity® の製造工程では再生可能原料を使用し、二酸化炭素を固定化します。当社が特許を有する微生物「Basfia succiniciproducens」により、様々なフィードストックを柔軟に利用することができます。さらに Succinity® バイオコハク酸は、クローズドループプロセスにより目立った廃棄物を出すことなく生産することが可能です。また製造工程の最終段階で入念な処理を行うことで、高品質なバイオコハク酸を生産することができます。

BASF とCorbion Purac は、技術的進歩や様々な用途における再生可能原料ベースの中間体の需要の高まりを受け、2009年からバイオコハク酸の開発を手がけてきました。バイオコハク酸は、従来の石油化学ベースのコハク酸やその他のジカルボキシル酸に比べ、二酸化炭素排出量が大幅に少ないことが特徴です。バイオコハク酸は、化学中間体市場において大きな市場潜在力を持つ化学品であり、バイオポリマー(例、PBS:ポリブチレンサクシネート)やポリウレタン、コーティング、ライフサイエンス製品などの様々な用途に利用することができます。

ーーー

October 5, 2012 

BASF and CSM establish 50-50 joint venture for biobased succinic acid

BASF and Purac, a subsidiary of CSM, are establishing a joint venture for the production and sale of biobased succinic acid コハク酸. The company will be named Succinity GmbH and will be operational in 2013. The establishment of Succinity GmbH is subject to filing with the relevant competition authorities. The company headquarters will be in Düsseldorf, Germany. 

2013年にCSMグループの名称変更
 CSM(
Centrale Suiker Maatschappij)Corbion
 Purac→Corbion Purac
    Caravan Ingredients→Corbion Caravan

BASF and CSM have been conducting research on succinic acid under a joint development agreement since 2009. The complementary strengths in fermentation and downstream processing led to the development of a sustainable and highly efficient manufacturing process based on a proprietary microorganism. The bacterium used is Basfia succiniciproducens, which produces succinic acid through natural processes. It is capable of metabolizing a variety of renewable feedstocks into succinic acid. The new process combines high efficiency with the use of renewable raw materials and the fixation of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2) in the production of succinic acid. This makes biobased succinic acid an economically and ecologically attractive alternative to petrochemical raw materials.

The demand for succinic acid is anticipated to grow strongly in the years ahead, driven mainly by bioplastics, chemical intermediates, solvents, polyurethanes and plasticizers.

BASF and CSM are currently modifying an existing fermentation facility at Purac’s Montmélo site near Barcelona, Spain, for the production of succinic acid. This plant, which will commence operations in late 2013 with an annual capacity of 10,000 metric tons of succinic acid, will put the new joint venture company in a leading position in the global marketplace. This is complemented by plans for a second large-scale facility with an annual capacity of 50,000 metric tons of succinic acid to enable the company to respond to the expected increase in demand. The final investment decision for this facility will be made following a successful market introduction.

About CSMCorbion

CSM is global market leader in lactic acid 乳酸 and lactic acid derivatives and is the largest supplier of bakery products worldwide. CSM operates in business-to-business markets throughout Europe, North America, South America, and Asia, generates annual sales of €3,1 billion and has a workforce of around 9,700 employees in 28 countries. CSM is listed on Euronext Amsterdam.

About Purac→Corbion Purac

Purac is a leading company in lactic acid 乳酸 based chemistry and the worldwide market leader in lactic acid, lactic acid derivatives and lactides. Purac is innovation driven and develops new products, technology and services in close cooperation with customers and knowledge centers. Purac has almost 80 years of experience in the development, manufacturing and marketing of its products in a broad range of industries. Purac operates production plants in the USA, the Netherlands, Spain, Brazil and Thailand and markets its products through a worldwide network of sales offices and distributors. Purac is headquartered in The Netherlands and is part of CSM.

 


2014 年4 月3 日

BASF と戸田工業、日本でリチウムイオン電池用正極材の合弁事業に向けた協議を開始

BASFと戸田工業は、日本を拠点にリチウムイオン電池用正極材を展開する合弁事業に向けた独占交渉を開始したことをお知らせします。

当該合弁事業は、日本において、NCA(ニッケル系正極材)、LMO(マンガン系正極材)、NCM(三元系正極材)といったさまざまな正極材料の製造、マーケティング、販売に注力する予定です。これらの材料は車載用、民生用、定置用のリチウムイオン電池に使用されています。両社はそれぞれの正極材(CAM)ビジネス、知的財産権、日本における製造設備・拠点などを結集し、バッテリー産業における正極材のポートフォリオを拡大していきます。なお、当該合弁事業においては、BASF が過半数の株式を保有する予定です。

戸田工業の代表取締役社長の久保田正は次のように述べています。「リチウムイオン電池市場における成長の鍵は、「製品開発」、「性能」、「コスト」、「供給規模・能力」です。今回のBASF との合弁事業のシナジー効果として、この4 つのすべてが強化でき、その結果今後拡大する市場に的確に対応できる、望ましい提携であると考えております。」

また、BASF の触媒事業部プレジデントのケニス・レーンは次のように述べています。「戸田工業との合弁事業により、BASF はグローバルのバッテリー材料市場において、さらなる事業の拡大と成長を加速していきます。また戸田工業との協働により、グローバルな成長戦略の達成に向けて、製造とイノベーションの専門知識を結集することが可能になり、相互に価値を見出すことのできるパートナーシップを築けるものと確信しています。」

TODA KOGYO CORP. is specialized in the Wet Synthesis Technology of metal oxide, and manufacturing cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries, coloring materials including pigments and toners, magnetic powder materials, ferrite materials and other various magnetic materials. We aim to expand our business globally along with our fundamental line to provide solutions to support society in the aspects of information, environment and energy. TODA KOGYO CORP. had consolidated net sales of about 31.6 billion JPY in the fiscal year 2012, as well as about 900 employees at the end of 2012.  

 

 


2014-04-09

BASF and Sinopec inaugurate acrylic acid and SAP plants in Nanjing, China

BASF and Sinopec today inaugurated two new plants for acrylic acid and superabsorbent polymers (SAP) at their state-of-the-art Verbund site, BASF-YPC Co., Ltd., a 50-50 joint venture in Nanjing, China. Additionally, a new butyl acrylate plant will begin production later this year. 

The new plants will further strengthen the C3 (propylene) value chain and serve the growing downstream demand. With an annual capacity of 60,000 metric tons, the new SAP plant will serve growing demand in China for baby diapers, adult incontinence products and feminine care products. 

“BASF is investing in Asia Pacific to produce 75% of our Asia Pacific sales locally, in order to ensure faster, more energy-efficient, more reliable supply. With the start-up of these projects, we continue to build on the success of our strong partnership with Sinopec, and reinforce our commitment to serving the hygiene industry in China and Asia as well as around the world,” said Albert Heuser, President, Greater China and Functions Asia Pacific, BASF. 

“The start-up of these projects will continuously improve the company’s ability to meet the demands of our customers. It will create new opportunities for sustainability and will make a positive contribution to clean production. It will also enhance industrial development,” said Chang Zhenyong, Vice Chief Engineer, Director of Chemical Department, Sinopec Corporation. 

BASF’s “Verbund” system creates efficient value chains that extend from basic chemicals right through to high-value-added products. In addition, the by-products of one plant can be used as the starting materials of another. At the BASF-YPC Verbund site in Nanjing, SAP, butyl acrylate and acrylic acid production will be backward integrated into the manufacturing of C3. This ensures greater supply reliability, energy efficiency, and cost effectiveness, while minimizing energy use and environmental impact.

 


Apr 9, 2014  

BASFとペトロナス・ケミカルズ・グループ、マレーシア・クアンタンにて香料原料生産のための統合施設を建設

BASFとペトロナス・ケミカルズ・グループ(PCG)は、クアンタンのゲベンにある現行の合弁会社、BASFペトロナス・ケミカルズを通じて、香料原料生産のための統合プロジェクトに5億米ドル(15億マレーシア・リンギット)を投資する予定です。今回の投資により、フレーバー&フレグランス産業における世界的な需要の高まり、特にアジア太平洋地域における需要に対応できるようになります。
 
この統合施設の中心部は、シトラールやその前駆物質のプラントです。また、その川下原料としてL-メントールの世界規模の新プラントやシトロネロールのプラントなど、香料原料の製造にも投資する予定です。開発は段階的に行われ、最初のプラント群は2016年に稼働開始を予定しており、およそ110の新たな雇用機会を創出します。
 
BASF 本社 取締役会副会長兼アジア太平洋地域担当取締役のDr.マーティン・ブルーダーミュラーは次のように述べています。
「今回の投資はBASFの戦略的パートナーであるPCGとの長期にわたる強固で良好な関係性の上に成り立っています。合弁事業の立ち上げ以来、BASFとPCGはこれまで、高品質かつ革新的な製品でこの地域のニーズに応えてきました。」
また、BASFのアジア太平洋地域担当のプレジデント、サオリ・デュボーグは次のように述べています。「今回の戦略的投資により、私たちは香料原料市場にますます貢献し、より多くの人々の日常生活に魅力的な香りやフレーバーをお届けすることが可能になります。クアンタンのフェアブント(統合生産拠点)での事業投資によるBASFのグローバル生産ネットワークの拡充は、お客様のアジア太平洋地域における将来的な事業成長計画を支援できると確信しています。」

ペトロナス・ケミカルズ・グループ(PCG)のダトック・ワン・ズルキフリー・ワン・アリフィン会長は次のように述べています。
「アロマケミカルを生産するこの統合施設により、フレーバー&フレグランス市場、製薬市場に進出することで、PCGにとっては新たなビジネス領域が切り開かれることになります。これはお客様に革新的なソリューションを提供することに努めてきたPCGにとって、素晴らしい可能性を示すものです。」

また、PCGのプレジデント兼CEOであるDr.アブド・ハピズ・アブドラは次のように述べています。「ゲベンの施設の拡張は、私たちの既存の製品群に更なる価値を加えることになるでしょう。当社の戦略的パートナーの香料原料における技術と専門知識を生かし、この合弁事業の強化に取り組んでいきます。」

BASFは香料原料製造におけるリーディングカンパニーとして、ゲラニオール、シトロネロール、リナロール、L-メントールなど、幅広い製品を提供しています。フレーバー&フレグランス産業向けに販売する香料原料は、主にホーム&パーソナルケア製品、高級香料に用いられるほか、食品産業や医薬品にも応用されています。

シトラールはレモングラスなどから採れる精油の主成分で、フレグランスおよびフレーバー製品においてフレッシュな柑橘類の香りやフルーティー感を出すために用いられます。また、ビタミンAやビタミンEの製造にも用いられ、香料原料の前駆物質としても使用されています。シトロネロールはフレッシュで強力かつ持続性の高いローズの香りを表現するために使用され、フレッシュフローラルの合成物の多くに欠かせない成分です。L-メントールはそのクール感やフレッシュ感から、オーラルケア、ボディケア、香味料製品によく用いられる成分で、医薬品にも応用されています。 

BASFとPCGは1997年に、合弁企業としてBASF-Petronas Chemicals Sdn Bhd を設立しました。現在は、マレーシア・パハンにあるGebeng工業団地で統合施設を運営しています。株式資本はBASFが60%、PCGが40%を保有し、アクリルモノマー、オキソ製品、ブタンジオールの生産工場に、約34億マレーシア・リンギットの初期投資を行いました。今回の新プロジェクトでは、両社はそれぞれの出資比率に応じて投資を行います。

 

In early early 2000 or so, BASF embarked on an aggressive R&D program targeted at an improved method for the synthesis of (-)-Menthol.

For background, it is important to realize that BASF had developed a remarkably sophisticated process for the synthesis of citral (an important intermediate for producing Vitamin A) which came on stream in 1981. In 2004, BASF opened a new highly efficient continuous process plant in Ludwigshafen with an annual capacity of 40,000 metric tons of citral. This process, starting with isobutylene and formaldehyde is shown in the first schematic.

With such capacity, BASF has continued to extend its citral value chain with a number of new & improved products. While linalool, geraniol & nerol (as well as related products such as citronellol, citronellyl nitrile, geranyl acetate, hydroxycitronellal, hydroxycitronellol, nerolidol, phytol, iso-phytol) have long been produced, since menthol is one of the worlds major fine chemical commodities (with an annual production of about 20,000 metric tons) - it presents a major potential opportunity for BASF.
Symrise and Takasago are currently the only major producers of synthetic (-)-menthol (producing about 5000 metric tons/year, combined). The price of natural menthol largely determines the economic viability of synthetic menthol production.

The BASF menthol process utilizes (+)-(R)- citronellal which can be produced from either geraniol or nerol by chiral catalytic hydrogenation to (+)-(R)-citronellol (in a manner similar to that described in 1987 by Ryoji Noyori and co-workers) followed by catalytic dehydrogenation to (+)-(R)-citronellal. In addition, BASF has also achieved the direct chiral catalytic hydrogenation of neral or geranial to (+)-(R)-citronellal (Ref. 4). This latter route as depicted in Scheme 2 appears to be the commercial route.

BASF has recently developed refined processes for the cyclization of (+)-(R)-citronellal to (-)-Isopulegol that minimizes the undesirable isomeric isopulegols (Ref. 5); further they have developed an improved process for enriching the (-)-Isopulegol before the hydrogenation step to (-)-menthol (Ref. 6). A continuous distillation process for purifying the final menthol product has also been achieved (Ref. 7).

BASF has now developed a new process based on the aroma chemical citral which is already produced in BASF's Verbund system. "One of the key steps in the new process is called asymmetric hydrogenation不斉水素化," explains BASF research scientist Dr. Rocco Paciello. "For this purpose we have developed a special, highly efficient catalyst system which ensures that mainly just a certain enantiomer光学異性体 is synthesized from the citral." In two further synthesis steps, this intermediate is then used to produce the L-menthol. Another advantage of this technique: it is a continuous process in which substances are constantly added and removed so therefore it has no downtimes. This not only saves time but is more resource-efficient because more L-menthol with a purity of at least 99.7 percent can be produced using the same amount of starting materials.


2014-06-03  BASF

Linde and BASF intend to jointly develop on-purpose butadiene technology

The Linde Group and BASF SE intend to cooperate in developing and licensing processes for the on-purpose production of linear butenes and butadiene. BASF has developed process technology and catalysts as well as the extraction technologies, while Linde is providing its expertise for the integration, optimization and commercialization of the process.

The new process will deliver an on-purpose route from butane to butadiene via butenes.
Currently, the industry relies mainly on butadiene as a co-product from naphtha-cracking to ethylene.

ブタジエンは接触分解を用いて、エチレンや他のオレフィン類と同時に製造している。
接触分解により製造された炭素数が同じ炭化水素群からブタジエンのみを単離する際には、通常アセトニトリルやジメチルホルムアミドなどを用いて液-液抽出を行った後に蒸留により精製している。

 The shift to lighter cracker feedstock results in reduced volumes of co-products. Therefore the on-purpose production of higher olefins is gaining more and more importance.

“The new BASF technology is currently being developed by mini plant and pilot plant operation in Ludwigshafen”, said Dr. Heinrich-Josef Blankertz, Senior Vice President Global Technology, of BASF’s Petrochemicals division. “We are optimistic that we can offer a new best-in-class technology for the manufacturing of on-purpose butadiene to help producers meet the increasing global demand.”

“We focus on elaborating a solution that provides an efficient process characterized by optimal integration of the whole process chain,” added Dr. Ernst Haidegger, Head of Product Line Petrochemical Plants at Linde’s Engineering Division. “This new technology is a welcome addition to our existing portfolio of petrochemical technologies.”

Butadiene is a monomer used for the production of polymers, paper coating and synthetic rubber mainly for the tire production. Butenes are building blocks which are used in the chemical and in refining industries.


2014/6/19  

BASF、韓国 礼山(イェサン)でエンジニアリング・プラスチックコンパウンド工場の建設を開始

 韓国におけるUltramid®とUltradur® コンパウンド生産能力が 2倍以上に拡大
 2015年末までに生産開始予定
 電気・電子および自動車用途向け高性能材料を供給

BASFは、韓国の忠清南道・礼山(イェサン)において新たなコンパウンド工場の建設に着手しました。新工場は、エンジニアリング・プラスチックコンパウンド「Ultramid®(ウルトラミッド)」(ポリアミド:PA)および「Ultradur®(ウルトラデュアー)」(ポリブチレン テレフタレート樹脂:PBT)の生産施設として2015年末までに生産を開始する予定です。

新プラントの初年度の年間生産能力は36,000トンを予定しており、これによりBASFの韓国におけるエンジニアリング・プラスチックコンパウンドの生産能力は2倍以上に拡大されます。礼山のプラント開設に加え、すでに発表されている中国・浦東のコンパウンド工場の生産能力拡大により、アジアにおけるBASFのコンパウンド総生産能力は、現在の130,000トンから2015年には225,000トンに拡大することになります。
 


2014-06-20

BASF strengthens performance materials production in China to better serve key industries in Asia Pacific

BASF, the world’s leading chemical company, has undertaken three key capacity expansion projects for performance materials at its Pudong site in Shanghai:
Ultramid® (polyamide, PA),
Ultradur® (polybutylene terephthalate, PBT),
Elastollan® thermoplastics polyurethane elastomers (TPU), and
Technical Center and capacity expansion of Cellasto® (microcellular polyurethane components).

“More than 60% of China’s people will live in cities by 2020. Supporting an environmentally-friendly path for urbanization presents a huge opportunity for chemistry as an enabler for sustainable innovations in areas ranging from industrial manufacturing to construction, transportation and consumer goods,” said Albert Heuser, President, Greater China and Functions Asia Pacific, BASF.

“As the leading producer of polyamide, PBT, TPU and Cellasto®, and preferred business partner for our customers , we continuously strengthen our position in key markets. With our technical and engineering competence, we help our customers differentiate in their market s and gain a competitive advantage. We put a strong emphasis on new market and product development, and these capacity expansions will support this future growth,” said Raimar Jahn, President, Performance Materials, BASF.

BASF’s biggest compounding facility in Asia Pacific for Ultramid® polyamide and Ultradur® PBT compounds starts operation ahead of schedule

BASF estimates the Asia Pacific market for engineering plastics will grow on average by about 7% per year. This growth is driven by the increasing usage of engineering plastics in various segments, including transportation, construction, high speed railway, as well as the electrical and electronics industry. Ultramid® and Ultradur® are used in automotive parts and innovative applications include seat structures, oil sump modules, sensors, engine mounts, connectors and highly integrated laser-structured electronic devices.

Additionally, according to China’s national New Urbanization Plan (2014-2020), with additional 100 million people living in cities by 2020, the percentage of more energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly buildings among newly constructed buildings in China will rise to 50% from 2% today.  BASF recently introduced co-extrudable Ultradur® to reinforce thermally insulated PVC window profiles, an important contributor to building energy efficiency.

The compounding plant’s total capacity for Ultramid® and Ultradur® compounds has doubled from currently 45,000 to more than 100,000 metric tons per year – making it BASF’ s biggest engineering plastics compounding facility in Asia Pacific. The expansion, which is operational more than six months ahead of schedule, also includes a compounding line for specialty grades that enables BASF to tap the burgeoning market potential for specialty applications. With this project and the new compounding plant in Yesan, Chung Nam Province, Korea, which is expected to begin operations from the end of 2015, BASF’s overall compounding capacities in Asia will increase from the current 130,000 to a total of 225,000 metric tons.

Significant increase in capacity of Elastollan® TPU reinforces BASF’s position in the region

Elastollan® TPU is a versatile material that offers the highest innovation potential. It can be processed with different methods, including extrusion and injection molding as well as blow molding.

BASF has now completed a significant capacity expansion at its Shanghai-based Elastollan® plant, which was established in 2007. Elastollan® TPU has a long history of success in China. The expansion of capacity for TPU in China will support growth of the rapidly growing market for textile, footwear, transportation, wire and cable sheathing and other industrial applications.

Technical and capacity enhancement of Cellasto® better serves the dynamic Asian automotive market

In 2013, more than 42 million cars were sold in Asia Pacific and over 20 million in China, the world’s largest automotive market. The number is foreseen to increase to 33 million in China and 62 million in Asia Pacific by 2020. (Source: LMC Automotive Ltd 2013 R eport).

Cellasto® is the customized solution for damping and reduction of the noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) level of vehicles. In Asia Pacific, BASF will strengthen the technical leadership of Cellasto®, based on the existing facilit y at BASF Pudong site, which was established in 2011 . The new investment project includes the expansion of the Cellasto® Asia Pacific Technical Center, the establishment of three new production lines , and the technical improvement of existing facilities. The production capacity will be doubled after the project completion in 2015.

Cellasto® components are sold to the automotive industry mainly as jounce bumpers, top mounts and coil spring isolators for suspension, as well as other NVH parts. BASF currently produces Cellasto® at six sites worldwide: Lemförde, Germany, Shanghai and Nansha, China, Guaratinguetá, Brazil, Shinshiro, Japan, and Wyandotte, USA.

The new technical and production facilities of Cellasto® mark a nother milestone of BASF as a leading supplier of automotive suspension parts in Asia, as well as enable BASF to better serve its OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) key accounts in the local market and help them perform more successfully in the competitive business environment.


2014-07-10

Alpek and BASF sign agreements regarding their EPS and PU business activities in the Americas

Alpek, S.A.B. de C.V. (“Alpek”) and BASF announced today that they have signed agreements concerning the EPS (expandable polystyrene) and PU (polyurethane) business activities of their Polioles joint venture in Mexico, and BASF’s EPS business in North and South America, excluding BASF’s Neopor® (grey EPS) business.

Alpek will acquire all of Polioles’ EPS business activities, including its EPS production site in Altamira, Mexico. In parallel, BASF will acquire Polioles’ PU business activities, including selected assets in its Lerma facility as well as all marketing and selling rights for PU systems, isocyanates and polyols. Upon completion of the transaction, Polioles will continue operations as an Alpek-BASF joint venture with a product portfolio comprised of industrial and specialty chemicals.

Under the agreements, Alpek will also acquire BASF’s EPS business activities in North and South America, including:
  BASF’s EPS sales and distribution channels in North and South America,
  BASF’s EPS production facilities in Guaratinguetá, Brazil, and General Lagos, Argentina, and
  BASF’s EPS foam parts business in Chile (Aislapol, S.A.).

The combined capacity of all EPS production facilities that Alpek will acquire is approximately 230,000 metric tons per year. This figure includes Polioles’ 165,000 metric tons per year production plant in Altamira, Mexico. Approximately 440 employees work in the businesses that are subject to the agreements – 380 employees in the EPS businesses and 60 employees in the PU business. The majority of these employees will keep their position under the new ownerships.

BASF will continue to sell Neopor to its customers in the United States, Canada and South America. In Mexico, Alpek will sell Neopor for BASF based on a distribution agreement.

All agreements are subject to approval by the appropriate authorities. Closing of the transaction is expected by early 2015. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

José de Jesús Valdez, Alpek’s CEO, stated: “This transaction represents an attractive opportunity for Alpek to build upon its EPS operations in Mexico, expand its EPS footprint across the Americas, and consolidate its ‘Plastics & Chemicals’ product portfolio. It also reaffirms Alpek’s commitment to the EPS value chain, where we will continue providing the highest standard of quality and service to all our customers.”

“The acquisition of the PU business significantly strengthens BASF Performance Materials’ industry-oriented customer solutions approach across North America and globally. BASF will focus its EPS business on strategic markets in Europe and Asia as well as on Neopor, which is produced in Germany and Korea,” said Raimar Jahn, President Performance Materials, BASF.

About Alpek

Alpek is the largest petrochemical company in Mexico and the second largest in Latin America. The company operates two business segments: Polyester (PTA, PET and polyester fibers), and Plastics & Chemicals (PP, EPS, caprolactam, polyurethanes and other specialty and industrial chemicals). Alpek is a leading producer of PTA and PET worldwide, operates the largest expandable polystyrene plant in America and one of the largest polypropylene plants in North America. It is also the only producer of caprolactam in Mexico. In 2013, Alpek reported revenues of U.S. $7.0 billion and EBITDA of U.S. $572 million. The company operates 16 plants in Mexico, USA and Argentina, and employs over 4,500 people. Alpek is a publicly traded company listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange.
 

About Polioles

Polioles is an Alpek-BASF joint venture headquartered in Mexico City. The company operates two production sites in Altamira and Lerma, Mexico, producing EPS, polyurethanes and industrial chemicals for the construction, electronics, paintings, cosmetics, automotive and furniture industry.

• POLIOLES began operations on February 14, 1965.
• At the end of 1969 the company, Wyandotte Chemicals, which held 40 % of the shares of the Company, was acquired by BASF.
• In 1974 Grupo Industrial ALFA acquires 60%.
• In 1994 BASF acquires 10% of the shares, and is represented as follows:

 

製品


Chemical Specialties

1 Polyethylene glycols (PEG's)
2 Polypropylene glycols (PPG's)
3 Polyalkylene glycols (PAG's)
4 Non-ionic Surfactants
5 Chelating Agents
6 Biocides
7 Waxes
8 Oil Field Chemicals
9 Electroplatiing
10 Green products

Polyurethans

Industrial Chemicals

1 Ethylene Glycols
2 Propylene Glycols
3 Glycol Ethers
4 Brake Fluid
 

Expandable Polystyrene

---------

ALFA is the largest independent producer of aluminum engine components for the automotive industry in the world, and one of the world’s largest producers of polyester (PTA, PET and fibers). In addition, it leads the Mexican market in petrochemicals such as polypropylene, expandable polystyrene and Caprolactam. It is the leading maker of cold cuts in North America, and of cheese in Mexico, as well as in information technologies and communication services for the business segment in this country. Since 2006 it participates in the hydrocarbon industry in the U.S.

Alpec:  

The largest petrochemical company in Mexico. The leading producer of polyester in North America and one of the most important worldwide. Operates the largest expandable polystyrene (EPS) plant in the Americas. Sole producer of polypropylene and caprolactam in Mexico.

NEMAC:
The world’s largest independent producer of complex aluminum powertrain components in the automotive industry.

SIGMA:

The leading maker of processed meats in North America, and of cheese in Mexico. The largest producer of hot dogs in the U.S., Mexico and Central America. Owns one of the largest refrigerated food distribution networks in Latin America. It serves 440,000 points of sale.
ALESTRA:Alestra
Leading provider of information technologies and communications services for corporate customers in Mexico.

NEWPEK:
Company engaged hydrocarbons exploration and production activities.


August 5, 2014 

Shanghai BASF Polyurethane to expand TDI capacity

Shanghai BASF Polyurethane Co. Ltd. will expand production of toluene diisocyanate at its Shanghai Chemical Industry Park another 60,000 tons a year, as it invests in several of its operations.

The firm will spend $65 million to upgrade its nitric acid, dinitrotoluene and TDA/TDI facilities. Capacity at the plant will increase to 220,000 tons a year when the project is expected to be completed, in 2016.

When the facilities go into operation, SBPC’s nitric acid capacity will rise from 390,000 tons a year to 416,000 tons a year, and the company is looking to a yearly external purchase of 41kT upstream feedstock to meet the demand of the expansion. The capacity of SBPC’s DNT facilities will increase from 190,000 tons a year to 260,000 tons a year.

TDI and hydrochloric acid from the new facilities are planned for external sales. HCl will be sold to Shanghai Chlor-Alkali Chemical, the company said.

Shanghai BASF Polyurethane is located in the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park of Caojing, Shanghai. It is a joint venture of BASF, Shanghai Hua Yi (Group) Company and Sinopec Assets Management Corporation. The company has four manufacturing plants, including a MDI plant for MDI distillation and three other facilities for the production of TDI and its precursors.


2014-09-11 

BASF starts up butadiene extraction plant in Antwerp

  • Production capacity of 155,000 metric tons per year

  • Securing BASF’s internal supply of butadiene in Europe

  • Taking advantage of opportunities on the external market

  • Strengthening of Antwerp Verbund site

BASF today announced the start-up of a new butadiene extraction plant at its Verbund site in Antwerp, Belgium. The plant has an annual production capacity of 155,000 metric tons.

The plant in Antwerp is BASF’s second butadiene extraction plant in Europe. BASF already operates a butadiene extraction plant at its Verbund site in Ludwigshafen, Germany, with an annual production capacity of 105,000 metric tons. With the plant in Antwerp, BASF is more than doubling its production capacity for butadiene in Europe.

“This plant secures our internal supply with butadiene at competitive costs,” said Dr. Uwe Kirchgäßner, head of BASF’s regional business unit Basic Petrochemicals Europe. “In addition, it enables us to take advantage of opportunities on the external market and strengthens our market position in Europe.”

The butadiene will be extracted from crude C4, a product from the steam cracker. “With the new plant we are further developing the integration of the C4 value chain in Antwerp,” said Wouter de Geest, CEO of BASF Antwerpen NV. “This important investment strengthens the Verbund at the Antwerp site.”

Butadiene is a raw material that can be used to produce synthetic rubber, among other applications. The tire industry is one of the main consumers of butadiene. Other applications for butadiene include plastics production and paper chemicals.
 



2014/9/12 Wintershall

BASF subsidiary Wintershall further expands oil and gas production in Norway
     Wintershall to acquire shares in oil and gas fields from Statoil for 1.25 billion US Dollar /
     Daily production in Norway will increase to around 60,000 barrels of oil equivalent

 
BASF Group company Wintershall is further expanding its oil and gas production and reserves in the North Sea. Wintershall will acquire shares in the two producing fields Gjøa (5%) and Vega (24.5%), the development project Aasta Hansteen (24%), the Asterix discovery (19%), the Polarled pipeline project (13.2%), as well as equity in four exploration licenses in the vicinity of Aasta Hansteen from Norwegian company Statoil ASA.
The shares in the assets comprise reserves and resources (2P/2C) of around 170 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe).
In addition, the companies agreed that Wintershall will become operator of the producing field Vega, subject to the approval of the authorities and consent of the other license partners.

The transaction will be executed with payment of the purchase price of 1.25 billion US Dollar and will be financially effective retroactively to January 1, 2014. In addition, a further payment of up to 50 million US Dollar will be made if the Aasta Hansteen field development is executed according to the current project plan. Statoil and Wintershall signed an agreement today in Stavanger.

The closing of the transaction is expected by the end of 2014, subject to the approval of the appropriate authorities. Wintershall will thereby raise its daily production in Norway – from currently 40,000 boe to around 60,000 boe. Wintershall and Statoil additionally agreed that the companies will work together on the exploitation of the exploration potential in the Vøring Basin.
“With the acquisition of these shares in oil and gas fields, we are continuing on our growth course in Norway and intensifying the cooperation with our partner Statoil,” said Kurt Bock, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF.

“The transaction and Wintershall’s further expansion in Norway clearly demonstrate the attractiveness of the Norwegian continental shelf. We look forward to extend our well established partnership into the Aasta Hansteen field development,” said Helge Lund, President and CEO of Statoil.

“We believe in the potential of the Norwegian continental shelf and clearly focus on our goal: We want to become one of the leading oil and gas companies in Norway. With domestic production in Europe we are strengthening the European supply security,” said Rainer Seele, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Wintershall. “By assuming responsibility as operator at Vega, we continue to build up our portfolio of Wintershall-operated fields in Norway.” Wintershall already successfully took over the operatorship of the producing field Brage in the northern North Sea in fall 2013, becoming the first company to take over a producing platform from Statoil in Norway.

-----

The Norwegian deal will make BASF, Germany’s largest industrial user of gas, less reliant on supplies from Russia as the U.S. and European Union ratchet up sanctions in response to the conflict in Ukraine.
An asset swap with OAO Gazprom, agreed to in 2012 and expected to close this autumn, was set to boost Russia’s share of BASF’s supply to more than half the total.

December 23, 2013

Today in Moscow, BASF and Gazprom signed the final agreement to swap assets of equivalent value. Through the swap, the BASF subsidiary Wintershall will further expand its production of oil and gas and exit the gas trading and storage business. The completion of the transaction is expected to take place mid-2014 and will be economically effective retroactively to April 1, 2013. Sales and earnings of BASF’s Natural Gas Trading business will continue to be reported in the Oil & Gas segment until completion. The transaction was approved by the European Commission at the beginning of December 2013.

Through the agreement, two additional blocks of the Achimov formation of the Urengoi natural gas and condensate field in western Siberia will be jointly developed. Wintershall, a 100% subsidiary of BASF, receives 25% plus one share of the blocks IV and V in the Achimov formation. According to the development plan confirmed by the Russian mining authority, blocks IV and V have total hydrocarbon resources of 274 billion cubic meters of natural gas and 74 million metric tons of condensate. This is equivalent to a total of 2.4 billion barrel of oil equivalent. An annual plateau production of at least 8 billion cubic meters of natural gas is expected from the two blocks. Start of production is planned for 2016.

In return, Wintershall will completely transfer the currently jointly operated natural gas trading and storage business to its long-term partner Gazprom. This includes the 50% shares in the gas trading companies WINGAS, WIEH (Wintershall Erdgashandelshaus Berlin) and WIEE (Wintershall Erdgashandelshaus Zug) including shares in the natural gas storage facilities in Rehden and Jemgum, Germany, as well as Haidach, Austria, and the gas storage operator astora. Gazprom will also receive a 50% share in the activities of Wintershall Noordzee B.V., which is active in the exploration and production of oil and gas in the southern North Sea (Netherlands, UK and Denmark). Together these activities contributed about €10 billion to sales and roughly €500 million to EBITDA of BASF Group in 2012. The partnership in the area of gas transportation activities will continue unchanged.


2014-09-15        2012/8/22 BASF、Cargill、Novozymesの3社、バイオベースのアクリル酸商業化を目指す 

BASF, Cargill and Novozymes achieved another milestone in bio-based acrylic acid

  • Success in making superabsorbent polymer from bio-based acrylic acid
  • Process selected for production of 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) and conversion to bio-based acrylic acid

BASF, Cargill and Novozymes today announced the achievement of another milestone in their joint development of technologies to produce acrylic acid from renewable raw materials. The team has demonstrated the successful conversion of 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP:3-ヒドロキシプロピオン酸), to glacial acrylic acid and superabsorbent polymers. Moreover they have selected the process for further scale-up.    

3-HPは蒸留すると脱水反応を起こし、アクリル酸となる。

In August 2012, BASF, Cargill and Novozymes announced their joint agreement to develop a process for the conversion of renewable raw materials into bio-based acrylic acid. In July 2013, the partners successfully demonstrated the production of 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP), one possible precursor to acrylic acid, at pilot scale.

BASF initially plans to use the bio-based acrylic acid to manufacture superabsorbent polymers. Currently, acrylic acid is produced by the oxidation of propylene derived mainly from the refining of crude oil. “After just 18 months we have selected the preferred process to convert 3-HP into glacial acrylic acid. Now we are working full force on the set-up of a small integrated pilot plant until the end of this year,” said Teressa Szelest, Senior Vice President Global Hygiene Business at BASF. Together with the pilot plant for 3-HP, operated by Cargill and supported by Novozymes, this will further support BASF’s plans for fast market entry of superabsorbent polymers derived from bio-based acrylic acid. 

“We are pleased to see the project progressing with high pace and commitment towards commercialization,” said Kristian Bjørneboe , Vice President Business Creation and Acquisition at Novozymes. “We are refining and pursuing options on how to move quickly towards commercial scale production of 3-HP to acrylic acid to meet market demands for consumer goods based on renewable raw materials. Meanwhile, strain and fermentation optimization towards commercial scale requirements is progressing steadily.”

 “Cargill came together with BASF and Novozymes to do what had not been done ever before. We have been working together for less than two years and we have made great progress toward our common goal,” said Jack Staloch Vice President of Research and Development at Cargill. ”It’s a great example of what can be accomplished when industry leaders with unique expertise in biotechnology and chemistry come together to create new innovations.” 

Superabsorbent polymers and other products derived from bio-based acrylic acid will be an innovative offer to the market and will meet consumer and industry demand for consumer goods based on renewable raw materials and sustainable supply chains. BASF is the world’s largest producer of acrylic acid, a high-volume chemical that feeds into a broad range of products, including superabsorbent polymers that can soak up large amounts of liquid, used primarily for diapers and other hygiene products.

 


2014-09-24 BASF

BASF reorganizes its paper chemicals business

  • BASF to remain a leading global supplier to the paper industry

  • New set-up follows structure of BASF value chains

  • Strategic options for paper hydrous kaolin business being evaluated

BASF is changing the organizational set-up of its paper chemicals business to strengthen its competitiveness and better meet the needs of the paper industry. BASF is a leading global supplier to the paper industry and offers a comprehensive range of chemical products for paper manufacturing and coating.

As of January 1, 2015, the Paper Chemicals division will be dissolved. The current headquarters of the Paper Chemicals division in Basel, Switzerland will be closed by the end of 2014. Overall, there will be a reduction of about 50 positions globally as a result of the implementation of the new set-up. The business will be continued in other divisions of the Performance Products segment as follows: 

  • The wet-end chemicals and kaolin businesses will be integrated into the Performance Chemicals division, supplementing the polyacrylamide value chain. A new global business unit “Paper Chemicals” will be established within the Performance Chemicals division. BASF is evaluating strategic options for its paper hydrous kaolin business.

  • The paper dispersions business and the Center for Sustainable Paper Packaging (CSPP) will be integrated into the division Dispersions & Pigments, supplementing the latex dispersions value chain.

“Integrating the paper chemicals business along existing value chains will allow BASF to optimally steer plant capacity and leverage the advantages of the BASF Verbund. This will strengthen our businesses and further increase the competitiveness of our Performance Products segment,” said Michael Heinz, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and responsible for the Performance Products segment.

BASF remains committed to the paper chemicals industry by providing sustainable solutions and technical expertise. There will be no impact on supply security and service for the customers. Sales with paper chemicals were €1.44 billion in 2013.

BASF continues to analyze further measures to improve the competitiveness of the Performance Products segment.
 


2014-10-07 

BASF inaugurates chemical complex in Dahej, India
http://www.basf.com/group/pressrelease/P-14-358

Production begins at BASF’s largest Indian investment to date
South Asia’s first MDI splitter will help make Gujarat a hub for value-adding industries
INR 1,000 crore investment project creates 500 direct and indirect jobs
Zero lost-time injuries during construction phase

BASF India Limited today inaugurated its large-scale chemical production complex at Dahej in Gujarat, India. With a project cost of INR 1,000 crore (approximately €150 million), the site represents BASF’s single largest investment in India.

The site includes an integrated hub for polyurethane manufacturing and production facilities for care chemicals and polymer dispersions. The care chemicals facility at the Dahej site hosts the first BASF sulfation 硫酸化 plant in India, which will cater to customers in the fast-moving consumer goods sector.

The polymer dispersions plant will expand BASF’s production footprint in the dispersions business, complementing the Mangalore facility. It will serve paper and board, architectural coatings, construction, adhesives, and fiber bonding customers, located in northern and western India.

The integrated polyurethane manufacturing facility will host a MDI (methylene diphenyl diisocyanate) splitter for processing crude MDI, a core component in the manufacture of versatile polyurethane products. They are used extensively for cold as well as heat insulation applications and are the preferred material for improving safety in transportation, and enhancing energy efficiency and comfort at home.

The site will also produce Elastollan® TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), Cellasto® (microcellular polyurethane components) and Polyurethane Systems. The integrated hub will support the demand of industries in the appliances, footwear, automotive, construction, and furniture segment.

The site currently employs 200 people directly and 300 people indirectly. In the near future, the site will offer direct employment opportunity to 50 additional people. Supporting state-of-the-art environment, health and safety facilities, the site has recorded zero lost-time injuries during construction.


 

2014-10-16 BASF 

BASF to divest global textile chemicals business to Archroma

  • Business to become part of Archroma’s Textile Specialties
  • BASF’s Performance Products segment further sharpens focus on growth-driven customer industries

BASF and Archroma have agreed on the sale of BASF’s global textile chemicals business to Archroma, a supplier of specialty chemicals to the textile, paper and emulsions industries. Archroma is a portfolio company of SK Capital Partners, a private investment firm with focus on the specialty materials, chemicals and healthcare sectors. It is planned to integrate the business into the Archroma Textile Chemicals Specialties business. Currently, the textile chemicals business is part of BASF’s Performance Chemicals division. The transaction is subject to approval by the relevant antitrust authorities and the closing is expected to take place in the first quarter of 2015. The parties have agreed not to disclose financial details. 

The transaction comprises the global textile chemicals business, as well as the legal entity BASF Pakistan (Private) Ltd., Karachi. About 290 positions globally are in the scope of the transaction, thereof approximately 230 in Asia. This step is in line with BASF’s strategy of actively managing its portfolio and it will further sharpen the focus of the Performance Products segment on growth driven customer industries. 

“In a very competitive and highly fragmented market, we have successfully positioned the textile chemicals business as one of the leading global textile suppliers. The current consolidation process of the industry means that a critical mass is necessary to grow the business successfully. We see positive future growth prospects for the business under the umbrella of Archroma, building on the expertise and professionalism of our textile chemicals team,” said Hans W. Reiners, President of BASF’s Performance Chemicals division. 

The textile chemicals business of BASF offers solutions to the full textile processing value chain, which includes a portfolio for pre-treatment, printing, finishing and coating. The business has a global presence with a strong focus on Asian growth markets, and is headquartered in Singapore.

About Archroma 

Archroma はSK Capital Partners がClariant からTextile Specialties、Paper Solutions、Emulsion Products の3事業を買収し、運営のため設立した。

2nd October 2013, Reinach

Archroma acquires three businesses from Clariant

Archroma has announced its official launch as a newly formed colour and specialty chemicals company that comprises the former Textile Specialties, Paper Solutions and Emulsion Products businesses of Clariant.

To be led by CEO Alexander Wessels, the newly recruited senior leadership team will work closely with the current heads of the three businesses acquired from Clariant.

By combining the company’s focused product range with the application services of the paper experts globally, Archroma claims to have enhanced both the optical and functional properties of paper. © Archroma

“We’re open for business with a new name and a financially strong and knowledgeable parent who believes in our technology, brand and leading market positions,” said new CEO Alexander Wessels.

Smooth transition

The three businesses were acquired by SK Capital Partners, a US based private investment firm with a disciplined focus on the specialty materials, chemicals and healthcare sectors.

“The transaction closing comes after a thorough preparation to ensure a seamless transition of the businesses from Clariant to new ownership. In addition, we believe that realigning the three businesses into a single integrated, market-focused and dynamic company will benefit both our employees and our customers,” commented Wessels.

“With SK Capital, we strengthen our business and further improve our offering to our customers. We have all the right cards in our hand. We know who we are and what we offer to our customers – innovation, performance, technical expertise, quality, reliability, a global footprint and a commitment to sustainability."

Customer and market focus

Archroma will be headquartered in Switzerland along with the management team of Archroma’s Paper Solutions Business. The Textile Specialties Business will be managed from Singapore and the Emulsion Products Business from Brazil.

The company is positioned in fibres and fabrics, paper and packaging, coatings, adhesives and construction end markets. It plans to continue to develop colour and performance materials to serve its customers’ needs.

Textile Specialties

Archroma's Textile Specialties Business provides special chemicals for pre-treatment, dyeing, printing and finishing of textiles.

Product packages are said to enhance the properties of apparel and other textiles in applications as diverse as high fashion, home textiles and special technical textiles.

Paper Solutions

Archroma's Paper Solutions Business provides expertise in the management of whiteness, colouration, special coatings and strength for all kind of papers

By combining the company’s focused product range with the application services of the paper experts globally, Archroma claims to have enhanced both the optical and functional properties of paper.

Emulsion Products

Archroma’s Emulsion Products Business provides solutions for a wide range of applications, including paints, adhesives and construction, as well as textile, leather and paper industries.

The company reports an outstanding success of its Mowilith emulsions, since the first patent was obtained in 1912.

- See more at: http://www.innovationintextiles.com/coating-laminating-bonding/archroma-acquires-three-businesses-from-clariant/#sthash.bbz4rehy.dpuf

2013/10/2 Archroma

Archroma acquires three businesses from Clariant

Archroma has announced its official launch as a newly formed colour and specialty chemicals company that comprises the former Textile Specialties, Paper Solutions and Emulsion Products businesses of Clariant.

The three businesses were acquired by SK Capital Partners, a US based private investment firm with a disciplined focus on the specialty materials, chemicals and healthcare sectors.

“The transaction closing comes after a thorough preparation to ensure a seamless transition of the businesses from Clariant to new ownership. In addition, we believe that realigning the three businesses into a single integrated, market-focused and dynamic company will benefit both our employees and our customers,” commented Wessels.

“With SK Capital, we strengthen our business and further improve our offering to our customers. We have all the right cards in our hand. We know who we are and what we offer to our customers – innovation, performance, technical expertise, quality, reliability, a global footprint and a commitment to sustainability."
Customer and market focus

Archroma will be headquartered in Switzerland along with the management team of Archroma’s Paper Solutions Business. The Textile Specialties Business will be managed from Singapore and the Emulsion Products Business from Brazil.

The company is positioned in fibres and fabrics, paper and packaging, coatings, adhesives and construction end markets. It plans to continue to develop colour and performance materials to serve its customers’ needs.
Textile Specialties

Archroma's Textile Specialties Business provides special chemicals for pre-treatment, dyeing, printing and finishing of textiles.

Product packages are said to enhance the properties of apparel and other textiles in applications as diverse as high fashion, home textiles and special technical textiles.
Paper Solutions

Archroma's Paper Solutions Business provides expertise in the management of whiteness, colouration, special coatings and strength for all kind of papers

By combining the company’s focused product range with the application services of the paper experts globally, Archroma claims to have enhanced both the optical and functional properties of paper.
Emulsion Products

Archroma’s Emulsion Products Business provides solutions for a wide range of applications, including paints, adhesives and construction, as well as textile, leather and paper industries.

The company reports an outstanding success of its Mowilith emulsions, since the first patent was obtained in 1912.


Dec 8, 2014 

BASF to acquire TaiwanSheen Soon台灣欣順, a leading manufacturer for TPU adhesives
  • Strategic move to broaden BASF’s Performance Materials product portfolio
  • Strengthening of BASF’s leadership for thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU)
  • Stronger synergies for further product innovation and deeper engagement with customers

BASF has entered into a definitive agreement to fully acquire the business and assets in Taiwan and Mainland China of Taiwan Sheen Soon (台灣欣順 “TWSS”), a leading manufacturer for thermoplastic polyurethanes (“TPU”) adhesives base material.

“The acquisition is part of our efforts to systematically pursue growth in the attractive TPU market. It is a valuable addition to our existing TPU portfolio; strengthening our manufacturing footprint in Asia,” said Mr Raimar Jahn, President, Performance Materials, BASF. “As TWSS has been at the forefront of TPU adhesives innovation, the acquisition is a strategic move that will strengthen BASF’s competences in this important growth field.”

The acquisition of the adhesives business of TWSS complements BASF’s established position in TPU extrusion as well as injection molding grades for various segments, such as footwear. An example of TPU application in the footwear segment is the “Energy Boost” running shoe from adidas, made with expanded TPU, which BASF markets under the name Infinergy™.

With the acquisition, the company will become an integrated solution provider for TPU and TPU adhesives, which enhances its value proposition to customers.

The acquisition is expected to close in 2015, pending necessary internal and external approvals. The integration will take effect in 2015. The parties have agreed not to disclose financial details of the agreement.

“TWSS’s cutting edge and proven technologies enable us to offer innovative solutions in a more integrated and efficient manner. Accordingly, the acquisition will greatly benefit our customers in short innovation cycle segments such as shoes,” said Albert Heuser, President, Greater China and Functions Asia Pacific, BASF.

“TWSS’s unique expertise for TPU adhesives is backed by established long-standing customer relationships and a global presence,” said Jason Chou, managing director and owner of TWSS, who will continue to oversee the business as a consultant to BASF. “TWSS’s existing customers and employees will gain access to the full portfolio of BASF products, technical expertise and resources through this acquisition.”

With this acquisition, BASF will secure and integrate all existing assets, customers and employees into the existing BASF legal entities and business. The company will also ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted supply for customers.
 


Dec 29, 2014  BASF

Wintershall sells share in South Stream Transport B.V.

BASF Group company Wintershall Holding GmbH today sold its 15-percent share in South Stream Transport B.V. to OAO Gazprom.
As per the shareholders’ agreement, the purchase price reimburses the cash invested by BASF. The parties agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

South Stream Transport B.V. was founded to construct the offshore portion of the South Stream pipeline through the Black Sea.

The project stalled after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced in early December that Moscow would abandon the pipeline project.
 


Jan 21, 2015 BASF 

BASF to increase capacity for butanediol at its Geismar site
  • Global capacity to increase to 670,000 metric tons of butanediol per year
  • Six global production sites

BASF will increase its production capacities for the chemical intermediate 1,4-butanediol (BDO) by 10% at its site in Geismar/Louisiana as of 2016. The company will then have a global capacity of BDO of 670,000 metric tons per year. Additionally, BASF looks into further measures to strengthen and to expand its BDO value chain at the Geismar site. To increase the capacities of BDO according to the steadily growing customer demand, BASF continuously implements measures to boost efficiency and improve infrastructure at all its sites.

Besides its Geismar site BASF is producing BDO at its sites in Ludwigshafen/Germany, Kuantan/Malaysia, Caojing/China and Chiba/Japan.

In addition, a new BDO site of a joint venture of BASF and the Chinese company Xinjiang Markor is expected to commence operations of 100,000 metric tons BDO per year by 2015.

2013/3/12   BASF、新疆美克化工とBDOとPolyTHFのJV 

“Being the leading producer of BDO globally, we continue to expand our production capacity step wise to support the growth of our customers as a reliable partner”, said Stefan Blank, President, BASF Intermediates division.

BDO is used for producing plastics, solvents, electronic chemicals and elastic fibers. Depending on the production technology, the starting materials for the production of conventional BDO are natural gas, coal, butane, butadiene and propylene.


Jan 26, 2017  

BASF increases production capacity of vitamin A
  • Expansion of production capacity for vitamin A by 25 % in Ludwigshafen, Germany
  • Reaction to rising demand for its high-quality vitamin A products as well as to global market growth

BASF increases its production capacities for vitamin A by 25 %. The company has expanded an existing plant in Ludwigshafen, Germany, which is part of BASF’s Citral Verbund. With this capacity extension, BASF reacted to the rising demand for its high-quality vitamin A products, as well as to the global market growth. Additional capacities are available immediately. Vitamin A is an essential and fat-soluble micronutrient. It is used by the human and animal nutrition industries in feed and food products, and also by the personal care sector. Vitamin A supports, for example, the function of the eyes, lungs and skin. It also helps to prevent growth disorders and supports skeletal development.

“With our vitamin portfolio, we are leaders in supply reliability and high quality: Our vitamin A stands out thanks to exceptional product stability and bio-availability.  This capacity increase shows our commitment to the growing vitamin A market”, said Dr. Christopher Rieker, who heads BASF’s Animal Nutrition business.

In animal nutrition, Vitamin A is used as a feed additive in all types of feed for livestock and companion animals. In human nutrition, vitamin A is used in supplements and to fortify foods and beverages. The BASF product portfolio includes a broad range of fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins. BASF also offers vitamins A/D3, D3, K1, B2, B5, E and Choline Chloride.


2015年2月10日 

BASF、電子材料業界向けの生産設備を台湾に新設

 最高品質の高純度アンモニア水・硫酸製造プラントの操業を開始
 Catamold®(キャタモールド ®)の製造プラントを新設    台湾に世界規模のフィードストック生産能力を実現
 アプリケーション・ラボを新設し、顧客が求める製造条件下での 素材性能テストが可能に

BASFは2015年2月5日、電子材料業界向けの生産設備を台湾に新設しました。製造、研究開発、アプリケーションテストを目的とした新設備は、台湾・桃園の観音(クワンイン)工業区に拠点を置き、台湾およびアジア太平洋地域の半導体、ディスプレイ、金属加工市場の事業強化に取り組みます。

高純度のエレクトロニクス用硫酸(H2SO4)およびアンモニア水 (NH4OH)製造向け新工場の操業を開始し、最新の精製技術を活用して最高品質の加工用化学製品を顧客に提供します。

また、Catamold®(キャタモールド ® )の生産設備およびテクニカル・アプリケーション・ラボも新設しました。BASF の Catamold® は金属射出成形(MIM)業界向けの高品質フィードストックで、今回の製造プラント新設により台湾で世界規模のCatamold®生産能力が実現し、エレクトロニクス産業や自動車産業における金属射出成形(MIM)技術の大規模な利用が可能となります。

キャタモールド ( Catamold®) は、複雑な形状の金属/セラミック部品を触媒脱脂法で製造する、粉末射出成形(Powder Injection Molding / MIM)のフィードストックです。弊社製品ポートフォリオには、代表的な低合金鋼、ステンレス鋼、工具鋼、超合金、セラミックなどがあります。

さらにアドバンスト・クリーニング・エッチング・フォトリソグラフィ(ACEP)のためのアプリケーション・ラボを新設して、サンプル調製機能を向上させるほか、既存のCMP(化学機械研磨)ラボには最先端のウェハー研磨ツールを導入して設備を拡張し、ラボで得た結果を大量生産に直結させることをできます。このように2つのラボを通じて、顧客のイノベーションに柔軟に対応していきます。

BASF電子材料ビジネスユニットのシニア・バイスプレジデントである Dr. ローター・ラウピヒラーは次のように述べています。「BASFはアジアにおけるエレクトロニクス産業の発展とともに投資を行い、市場での確固たる地位を築いてきました。台湾市場へのさらなる投資は、BASFが顧客に対してより一層身近な存在となり、顧客独自のニーズに対応した効果的なソリューションを迅速に提供することで、市場展開が速く競争の激しい国際市場において顧客とともに成長・成功を実現しようとするBASFの姿勢を表したものです。」

観音工業区の新設備には先端技術を備えたタッチパネルラボ(Touch Panel Lab)も設置され、BASF製品サポートチームが素材の性能をテストする顧客支援を行い、顧客に合わせたソリューションとタイムリーな素材性能の確認プロセスを組み合わせていきます。BASFが提供する業界最高品質のディスプレイ用樹脂のコーティングフォーミュレーションは、薄くてフレキシブルなデザイン、そして反応性のよさと低反射性などの優れた視覚性能を兼ね備えたタッチデバイスやタッチディスプレイの製造に貢献します。

BASF台湾のマネージング・ディレクターであるエンレオン・ゴーは次のように述べています。「台湾は世界における電子材料市場の一つです。設備の新設により、市場ニーズに応え革新的なソリューションを提供するBASFのリーディングカンパニーとしての地位を強固にし、台湾およびアジア太平洋地域の顧客の皆様に優れたサービスを迅速に提供していきます。」
 


Yara International

Yara and BASF to build ammonia plant in Texas

Yara International and BASF Group have agreed to build a world scale ammonia plant at BASF's site in Freeport, Texas. The plant will use hydrogen as raw material, reducing capital expenditures (capex), maintenance and carbon dioxide emissions significantly.

"I am very pleased to announce this highly value creating project together with BASF. The use of hydrogen as raw material reduces capex, maintenance and carbon dioxide emissions significantly. This project will further strengthen Yara's position in the global ammonia market and increase our footprint in the United States. I would like to thank BASF for putting trust in Yara and we look forward to a long and good relationship," said Torgeir Kvidal, president and CEO of Yara International.

"Through the joint investment with Yara, we can take advantage of world-scale production economics and the attractive raw material costs in the United States. We will thus strengthen our Freeport Verbund and the competitiveness of our polyamide 6 value chain in the region. We look forward to a successful partnership with Yara," said Wayne T. Smith, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE, responsible for the Chemicals segment.

The ammonia plant will be owned 68 percent by Yara and 32 percent by BASF and located on BASF's site in Freeport. The plant will have a capacity of about 750,000 metric tons per year. Each party will off-take ammonia from the plant in accordance with its equity share. Total capital investment for the plant is estimated at USD 600 million. Yara will in addition build an ammonia tank at the BASF terminal bringing Yara's total investment to USD 490 million. BASF will in addition upgrade its current terminal and pipeline assets.

The hydrogen technology reduces capex and maintenance significantly compared to a traditional natural gas based ammonia plant. The technology also allows for lower carbon dioxide emissions. A long-term supply agreement for nitrogen and hydrogen has been signed with Praxair Inc, the largest industrial gases company in North America, linking the feedstock variable cost to the advantageous natural gas prices available at the U.S. Gulf coast.

KBR, Inc, Houston, Texas, has been awarded a fixed price turnkey contract for the engineering, procurement and construction. The plant is expected to be completed by the end of 2017. Yara will manage construction of the plant while BASF will operate the plant and the export terminal.

Yara International ASA はノルウェーに本社を置く世界最大の窒素肥料メーカーである。主要事業領域は尿素、硝酸塩、アンモニアといった窒素化合物を主とした窒素肥料の製造、販売。

The company was established as Norsk Hydro – the world’s first producer of mineral nitrogen fertilizers – in 1905.

In 2004, Hydro Agri demerged from Norsk Hydro and became an independent company called Yara International ASA. The company was listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange on March 25, 2004.


February 23, 2015  

BASF, Petronas to build 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid plant in Kuantan

Petronas Chemicals Group Bhd has teamed up with German chemical firm BASF SE to build a new production plant for 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid, at the site of their existing joint venture BASF Petronas Chemicals Sdn Bhd in Kuantan, Pahang.

In a joint statement today, BASF and Petronas said the construction of the plant, which will be the first of its kind in Asean, is expected to commence in the second quarter of this year.

The plant, which has a total annual capacity of 30,000 tonnes of 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid, is expected to start production in the fourth quarter of 2016, and will benefit
2-Ethylhexanoic Acid is a chemical intermediate used as a compound, for example in the production of synthetic lubricants, as well as oil additives. It is also used for functional fluids like automotive coolants, metal salts for paint dryers, plasticisers, stabilisers, catalysts and other applications in various industries.

BASF currently operates a 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid production plant at its Verbund system site in Ludwigshafen, Germany.

In addition to the proposed plant, BASF Petronas is building an integrated aroma ingredients complex at its Kuantan site for the manufacturing of citronellol, L-menthol, as well as citral and its precursors which are widely used in flavour and fragrance industry.

Groundbreaking for the US$500 million (RM 1.82 billion) integrated aroma ingredients complex was done in April 2014, and the first plant is scheduled to come onstream in 2016.


Mar 5, 2015 

BASF now offers bio-based PolyTHF
  • Properties identical to conventional PolyTHF
  • Extends range of products based on renewable raw materials
  • Opportunity for customers to test new market segments

BASF has made bio-based Polytetrahydrofuran 1000 (PolyTHF® 1000) available for the first time. The company is now providing this intermediate to selected partners for testing various applications in a large scale. “The bio-based PolyTHF 1000 is identical in quality to the petrochemical-based product,” said Andrej Brejc, Director Renewable Diols from BASF’s Intermediates division, adding, “The opportunity to expand the range of products and applications made from renewable raw materials allows us and our partners to further explore the long-term market acceptance of this innovative technology.” PolyTHF is derived from 1,4 butanediol (BDO), which BASF has produced under license from Genomatica.

Genomaticaが開発した植物を原料に1,4-ブタンジオールを製造する技術

May 10, 2013

BASF licenses Genomatica’s BDO process

BASF plans to begin production of 1,4-butanediol based on renewable feedstock (renewable BDO) using the patented process of Genomatica, San Diego, California. The one-step fermentation process is based on sugars as a renewable feedstock. The companies have agreed not to disclose financial details of the agreement.

The license agreement allows BASF to build a world-scale production facility that will use the Genomatica process to manufacture BDO based on renewable feedstock. Under the terms of the agreement, Genomatica will continue to advance its patented renewable BDO production process technology based on sugars while BASF will produce renewable BDO, which will be available in the second half of 2013 for sampling and trials.

BASF is the world’s leading provider of PolyTHF. It is primarily used to make elastic spandex fibers for a large variety of textiles, including underwear, outerwear, sportswear and swimsuits. PolyTHF 1000 is mainly applied as a chemical building block for thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which is used to make for example parts of ski boots and skates, shoe soles and instrument panel skin for automotive applications as well as hoses, films and cable sheathing. It is also used as a component of thermoplastic polyetheresters and polyetheramides. Other applications include cast elastomers, which are used, for example, for the production of wheels for skateboards and inline skates.


May 7, 2015 

BASF to focus pharmaceutical ingredients business on its core expertise
  • Planned sale of its custom synthesis business and parts of its active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) business to Siegfried Holding AG
  • Ibuprofen, omega-3 fatty acids and polyethylenglycol remain a key part of BASF’s portfolio
  • Targeted transaction comprises production sites in Minden, Germany; Evionnaz, Switzerland; and Saint-Vulbas, France

BASF plans to focus its pharmaceutical ingredients & services business within the Nutrition & Health division on its core expertise in pharmaceutical excipients. To implement this decision, BASF intends to divest its custom synthesis business and parts of its current active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) business to Siegfried Holding AG. These include APIs such as ephedrine, pseudoephedrine and caffeine.

BASF’s leading excipient portfolio and selected APIs, such as ibuprofen, omega-3 fatty acids and polyethylenglycol (PEG), where the company has a leading market position, will remain part of BASF’s portfolio.

The intended divestiture is still subject to the successful completion of processes required by applicable law, including consultations with employee representations and the approval of the competent merger control authorities.

The transaction comprises the divestment of BASF’s production sites in Minden, Germany; Evionnaz, Switzerland; and Saint-Vulbas, France. The enterprise value is approximately €270 million. About 850 positions globally are in the scope of the transaction. BASF and Siegfried intend to transfer all affected employees to the acquiring company.

“BASF’s highly skilled team and its competitive plants for active pharmaceutical ingredients and custom synthesis will give the new owner a strong market position and will create additional value,” said Michael Heinz, Member of the Board of Executive Directors, BASF SE, and responsible for the Performance Products segment, which includes the Nutrition & Health division. This segment bundles BASF’s businesses with chemicals that improve the properties of many different end-user products. “This step is in line with BASF’s strategy of actively managing its portfolio and it will further sharpen the focus of the Performance Products segment on growth and high margin core businesses,” said Heinz.

“With this divestiture, we are focusing our portfolio on strategic growth areas in the pharmaceutical industry,” said Saori Dubourg, President of BASF’s Nutrition & Health division.

Siegfried CEO Dr. Rudolf Hanko: “Through this acquisition, Siegfried will reach the critical size to play a leading role in the supplier market as a recognized partner for the pharmaceutical industry. This acquisition demonstrates the growth potential for the Siegfried Group.”

BASF is a leading solution provider and innovator in excipients for the pharmaceutical industry. BASF’s key objective is that customers continue to receive the high quality and reliable supply of products in the transition phase to Siegfried. Therefore, BASF is rendering transitional services to ensure a smooth and seamless business transfer for both customers and employees.


Jun 3, 2015 Reuters

BASF mulls potential bid for Syngenta

German chemicals group BASF SE is considering a potential offer for Syngenta AG, its Swiss rival which has received a $45 billion takeover offer from Monsanto Co , people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.

2015/5/12  Syngenta、Monsantoによる買収提案を拒否

BASF is speaking to investment bankers about the possibility of an offer for Syngenta, though it has made no decision and no bid may materialize, the people said, asking not to be identified because the deliberations are confidential.

Syngenta has so far spurned Monsanto's overtures citing antitrust hurdles, though lawyers representing the two companies met last week in New York to discuss whether the regulatory obstacles can be overcome, a separate source said. A BASF bid for Syngenta would also likely face significant antitrust issues.

BASF, Syngenta and Monsanto declined to comment.

BASF, the world’s largest chemicals group by sales, is also developing improved plant characteristics such as drought tolerability but relies on partners, the biggest being Monsanto, to bring finished seed products to market. Other partners of BASF’s plant biotechnology business, which does not disclose sales, include Bayer AG and Cargill Inc.

BASF’s crop chemicals division with 5.4 billion Euros in 2014 sales, commands about 11 percent of the global crop chemicals market, in third place after Syngenta and Bayer. Any tie-up with the Swiss group would be expected to trigger considerable antitrust related asset sales.

BASF is also a potential buyer of Syngenta's seed business should Monsanto agree to a deal with Syngenta and then sell its seed business to allay antitrust concerns, sources have previously told Reuters.

The German group, which has oil and gas operations and makes products including coatings, catalytic converters and super absorbers for diapers, trades at about 8.4 times core earnings compared with Syngenta’s multiple of 15.9, according to StarMine data.

 


2015/6/18  BASF 

BASF breaks ground on new, world-scale chemical catalysts manufacturing plant in Caojing, Shanghai

BASF, the world’s leading chemical company, broke ground today on a new, world-scale chemical catalysts production facility at the company’s existing site in the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park in Caojing, Shanghai, China.

The new plant – BASF’s first process catalysts manufacturing facility in Asia Pacific – will produce base metal catalysts, custom catalysts and adsorbents 吸着剤 to meet growing Chinese and Asian market demand. These catalysts are used in the production of fatty alcohols, sulfuric acid and butanediol and for the removal of impurities from olefins.

“Today’s groundbreaking event is a significant milestone in our effort to strengthen our manufacturing footprint in Asia Pacific and improve our proximity to customers in the fastest growing region for our base metal and custom catalysts solutions,” said Detlef Ruff, BASF’s Senior Vice President, Process Catalysts. “This new facility will be integrated into our global chemical catalysts manufacturing infrastructure allowing us to support strong regional demand growth while increasing our manufacturing capacity and overall production efficiencies.”

The launch of manufacturing activities at the Caojing plant is planned for the fourth quarter of 2016. Once operating at full capacity, the plant will create 75 new jobs.

The Caojing plant is designed in a highly automated and energy efficient manner, offering the opportunity for future expansion and the flexibility to adapt to new customer production requirements in the years ahead.



 

2015/6/19  

Gazprom, E.ON, Shell and OMV in Nord Stream Boost

Gazprom, E.ON, Royal Dutch Shell and OMV have signed Memorandums of Intent specifying the cooperation among the companies within the project for constructing the gas transmission infrastructure for direct supply of Russian gas to European consumers.

The documents were signed yesterday, June 18, 2015 within the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2015.

The Memorandum reflects the parties’ intent to implement a project for the construction of two gas pipeline strings from the Russian coast to the German coast via the Baltic Sea. The capacity of the new gas pipeline will reach 55 billion cubic meters a year.

Considering the drop in domestic gas production in Europe as well as the global growth in gas demand, the parties pointed out the need to create new infrastructure to secure reliable supplies of the eco-friendly fuel to European consumers.

In the near future the parties will launch the incorporation of a joint project company. They are planning to draw on the positive experience and best practices of Nord Stream AG obtained by the company since 2012, including the completed pre-investment study.

---

Platts  2015/6/26

Gazprom expects BASF/Wintershall to join Nord Stream-2 gas line project by September

Gazprom expects a fourth European company, BASF/Wintershall, to join a project to build two new gas pipelines across the Baltic Sea to Europe by September, Gazprom CEO Alexei Miller said Friday.

"The talks with BASF/Wintershall will continue in July. We expect it will join [the project] by September so to become a shareholder in the joint venture, which we plan to set up by the end of the third quarter," Miller said.

Last week, Gazprom, E.ON, Shell and Austria's OMV signed memorandums of understanding to build the third and fourth lines of the Nord Stream gas pipeline, to double its current capacity of 55 Bcm/year.

Gazprom will hold a 51% stake in the project, while European companies will have the remaining interest, Miller said.

"Based on this, Wintershall may receive between 9% and 15-15.5%," he said, speaking to reporters.

Nord Stream Pipelineは、2005年9月、ロシアのGazpromとドイツの電力会社E.On、及びBASFのエネルギー分野の子会社Wintershallの3社が設立し、その後、オランダのNederlandse GasunieとフランスのGDF SUEZが参加した。
現在の出資比率は、
Gazprom 51%、Eon 15.5%、Wintershall 15.5%、Gasunie 9%、 GDF SUEZ 9%となっている。


Jul 22, 2015  

BASF to set up new global business unit combining all pigments activities
  • BASF intends to establish separate legal entities for the pigments business
  • New organization enables the business to better adapt to the challenges in the pigments industry

BASF will form a global business unit (GBU) combining all of its pigments activities effective January 2016. In the second half of 2016, BASF intends to carve out its pigments business and establish separate legal entities.

With sales of about €1 billion in 2014 and 2,500 employees globally, BASF holds a leading position in the pigments market, offering the broadest portfolio of products and technology. The new GBU will likely be headquartered in the Ludwigshafen area. All employees who are dedicated to the pigments business will be transferred to the new GBU.

“We have achieved and maintained a leading position in the pigments market through acquisitions and a series of successful restructuring measures. The new global business unit will fully concentrate on the pigments business and thus be even more focused on supporting the needs of our pigments customers,” said Dr. Markus Kramer, President of BASF’s Dispersions & Pigments division.

Dr. Alexander Haunschild, Senior Vice President of the regional business unit Pigments and Resins Europe and appointed head of the GBU, stated: “By creating an organization fully dedicated to pigments, we will adapt better to the challenges in the pigments industry. Our customers will benefit from tailored services and higher responsiveness.”

BASF’s pigments business serves a variety of industries including paints & coatings, printing & packaging and plastics. The portfolio comprises of color pigments such as phthalocyanines, high performance pigments, azo pigments, effect pigments, inorganic pigments, dyes and pigment preparations.

 

BASF、顔料関連事業活動すべてを統括するグローバル・ ビジネスユニットを新たに設置
 顔料事業部門を独立、別会社として運営を予定
 顔料業界のニーズに合わせた組織体制に

BASF(本社:ドイツ ルートヴィッヒスハーフェン)は、2016年1月に顔料関連事業活動すべてを統括するグローバル・ビジネスユニット(GBU)を新設します。2016年後半には、顔料事業を分離し、別会社を設立する予定です。
BASFの顔料事業は2014年に世界で約10億ユーロの売上および2,500人の従業員を有しています。顔料市場のマーケットリーダーであり、業界で最も幅広い製品群およびその関連技術を提供しています。新設するGBUの本部はドイツ・ルートヴィッヒスハーフェンおよびその周辺に設置される予定で、顔料事業関連に従事している従業員はすべて、新たなGBUに所属します。
BASF ディスパージョン&ピグメント事業本部プレジデントのマルクス・クラマーは次のように述べています。「買収や構造改革を重ねることで、BASFは顔料市場においてリーダーポジションを築き、維持してきました。新設されるグローバル・ビジネスユニットは顔料事業の運営のみに注力することになり、当社顔料事業のお客様ニーズにお応えすることに、より一層尽力してまいります。」
ヨーロッパ地域顔料・樹脂部門シニアバイスプレジデントであり、新たなGBUの責任者として任命されたアレキサンダー・ハウンシルドは次のように述べています。「顔料事業に特化した組織を設置することで、柔軟性が生まれ、顔料業界における課題により良い対応ができるようになると考えます。より迅速に、お客様に合ったサービスを提供することができます。」
BASFの顔料事業部門は塗料・塗装業界、印刷・包装業界、プラスチック業界など、さまざまな業界に製品を提供しています。製品ポートフォリオには、フタロシアニンなどの着色顔料、高性能顔料、アゾ顔料、光輝顔料、無機顔料、染料、加工顔料などがあります。
■BASF のディスパージョン&ピグメント事業本部について
ディスパージョン&ピグメント事業本部は、業界の専門知識と包括的な製品ラインナップをもとに、お客さまのフォーミュレーションを促進させます。ディスパージョン&ピグメント事業本部では、コーティング・塗料、印刷・包装、建設、接着剤、電子ディスプレイなどの業界で使用される顔料、樹脂、添加剤、接着剤用ポリマーディスパージョン、繊維接合、建設化学品などの原材料を生産しています。 BASF の企業価値と同様、ディスパージョン&ピグメント事業本部は、イノベーションを創出し、 BASF が製品を提供するお客さまと業界のために持続可能なソリューションを促進します。



Dispersions & Pigments

BASF is the leading global supplier of raw materials for the paints and coatings industry. The Dispersions & Pigments division combines all BASF products geared toward this industry. The portfolio encompasses dispersions, pigments, resins and a broad range of additives, such as performance and formulation additives. Further end-user industries include construction materials, adhesives, printing and packaging, automotive and electronic specialties as well as plastic products. Our portfolio is especially strong with environmentally friendly systems, such as low-volatile organic compound (VOC) water-based coatings.

Dispersions
Polymer dispersions are water-based systems used in the production of adhesives, sealants, architectural coatings, construction chemicals and non-woven materials. Our strength lies in our backward integration into acrylics and the division’s strong technical expertise and application know-how.

Pigments
Pigments are insoluble coloring and iridescent materials used in paints, inks and special applications. BASF is the leading pigment supplier worldwide, with a particular strength in high-performance pigments. Our product portfolio comprises a wide range of organic and inorganic pigments, effect pigments, and pigment preparations.

BASF offers a unique portfolio covering the entire color range.
The main end-user industries are:
    Automotive coatings
    Decorative paints and industrial coatings
    Printing and packaging
    Electronic specialties
    Plastics

Resins
Resins are film-forming components used in energy-curable coatings, urethane or melamine as well as water-based coatings and inks. The comprehensive product portfolio includes water-based resins, acrylic oligomers, polyisocyanates, amino resins, aldehyde resins, dimers, vinyl chloride copolymers, and high-solid polyols.

We offer customer solutions fulfilling regulatory requirements regarding VOC. The main applications are:
   Automotive coatings
   Wood coatings
   Protective coatings
   Printing and packaging

Additives
BASF offers a broad range of additives that significantly improve the quality and performance of many paints and coatings. BASF is the market leader for performance additives particularly in the following areas:
    Photoinitiators
    Light stabilizers

BASF’s market position

Dispersions: No. 2 globally for adhesives, construction chemicals, architectural coatings and fiber bonding materials
Pigments: No. 1 globally, broadest portfolio of colors and chemical product classes
Resins: No. 1 globally in water-based resins for printing and packaging
Additives: No. 1 globally in photoinitiators and light stabilizers, broad portfolio of formulation additives

Main competitors

Dispersions: Dow, Celanese, Arkema
Pigments: Clariant, DIC, ALTANA
Resins: Cytec, Bayer, Dow
Additives: ALTANA, Evonik, Elementis

 


07/27/2015 

Yara International-BASF Begin Construction Of Ammonia Plant In Freeport, Texas

Yara International ASA and BASF started construction on its approximately $600 million world scale ammonia plant at the BASF site in Freeport, Texas.

As part of the project, Yara will build an ammonia tank at the BASF terminal and BASF will upgrade its current terminal and pipeline assets for the export of ammonia from the new plant.

The plant will have a capacity of about 750,000 metric tons per year and will be owned 68 percent by Yara and 32 percent by BASF. Each party will off-take ammonia from the plant in accordance with its equity share.
BASF will use its share of ammonia from the plant to produce caprolactam, a key ingredient in the manufacture of nylons for carpet, textiles, film, monofilaments, and wire and cable.

最後のシクロヘキサノンオキシムをカプロラクタムに転位させる工程はベックマン転位と呼ばれ、化学量論的に過剰量の発煙硫酸が反応助剤として使用されている。カプロラクタムは硫酸塩として得られるのでこれを遊離させるためにアンモニアで中和する必要がある。カプロラクタム1トンあたり約1.7 トンの硫安がこの工程で副生している。

Yara will market the remainder mostly to industrial customers in North America, in addition to supplying the agricultural sector, company officials said.

"I am very pleased to be here today, initiating the construction of an important investment for Yara – alongside our partners at BASF, the North American affiliate of Germany-based BASF SE. The building of the Freeport Ammonia plant is a firm demonstration of how we deliver on our growth strategy," said Torgeir Kvidal, President/CEO of Yara.

"BASF is in a period of significant investment in North America," said Wayne T. Smith, Chairman/CEO of BASF Corporation and member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE. "Through the joint investment with Yara, we can take advantage of world-scale production economics and the attractive raw material costs in the United States; strengthening our operations in Freeport and the competitiveness of our customer value chain in the region."

The hydrogen based process that will be used in the new plant significantly reduces capital expenditures and maintenance compared to a traditional natural gas based ammonia plant, company officials said. A long-term supply agreement for nitrogen and hydrogen has been signed with Praxair Inc, the largest industrial gases company in North America, linking the feedstock variable cost to the advantageous natural gas prices available at the U.S. Gulf coast.

Yara International ASAはノルウェーに本社を置く世界最大の窒素肥料メーカー。主要事業領域は尿素、硝酸塩、アンモニアといった窒素化合物を主とした窒素肥料の製造、販売である。

2004年3月26日、Norsk Hydroが上場する際、肥料事業すべてを含む Hydro Agri部門が、独立して設立された。Norsk HydroはYaraの株式保有分全てをNorsk Hydroの株主に分配したため、Norsk HydroはYaraの経営権を持っていない。


Sep 4, 2015  

BASF and Gazprom agree to complete asset swap
  • BASF subsidiary Wintershall to focus on oil and gas exploration and production and exit gas trading business
  • Completion of transaction expected by the end of 2015

BASFは、ロシアのガス生産会社ガスプロム と2013年に締結したものの同国との政治的緊張で棚上げしていた資産交換合意を復活させる。ビジネスの関係改善が示唆された。
欧州委員会が約2年前に承認した資産交換は年内に完了し、13年4月1日にさかのぼって適用する。同社は120億ユーロ(約1兆6000億円)強の売上高を有する資産を手放してガス取引から完全撤退し、これをガスプロムが保有するシベリアのガス田の権益と交換する。
BASFは電子メールで配布した別の発表資料で「当時の厳しい政治環境のため、BASFとガスプロムは2014年末に予定していた資産交換を完了させない決定を下していた」とした上で、「後日完了させる可能性は排除しておらず、この取引完了の共同決定に今至った」と説明した。
 

   参考 2014/12/25 BASF、Gazpromとの資産交換計画を断念 

BASF and Gazprom have agreed to complete the swap of assets with equivalent value signed in December 2013 and originally intended to be completed by the end of 2014. With the swap, BASF will further expand its production of oil and gas and will exit the gas trading and storage business. The completion of the asset swap is expected by the end of 2015 and, as agreed upon in December 2013, will be financially retroactive to April 1, 2013. The swap was already approved by the European Commission at the beginning of December 2013.

Through the transaction, Wintershall, a 100% subsidiary of BASF, receives the economic equivalent of 25% plus one share of the blocks IV and V in the Achimov formation of the Urengoy natural gas and condensate field in western Siberia. The two blocks will be jointly developed by Gazprom and Wintershall. According to the development plan confirmed by the Russian mining authority, blocks IV and V have total hydrocarbon resources of 274 billion cubic meters of natural gas and 74 million metric tons of condensate. This is equivalent to a total of 2.4 billion barrels of oil equivalent (boe). An annual plateau production of at least 8 billion cubic meters of natural gas is expected from the two blocks. Production is planned to start in 2018.

In return, Wintershall will transfer its share in the currently jointly operated natural gas trading and storage business to its long-term partner Gazprom. This includes the 50% participation in the gas trading companies WINGAS, WIEH (Wintershall Erdgas Handelshaus Berlin) and WIEE (Wintershall Erdgas Handelshaus Zug) including shares in astora, which operates the natural gas storage facilities in Rehden and Jemgum, Germany, as well as a share in the natural gas storage in Haidach, Austria.
Gazprom will also receive a 50% share in the activities of Wintershall Noordzee B.V., which is active in the exploration and production of oil and gas in the southern North Sea (Netherlands, UK and Denmark). Together these activities contributed about €12.2 billion to sales and around €260 million to EBITDA of BASF Group in 2014 and about €7.2 billion to sales and around €240 million to EBITDA of BASF Group in the first half of 2015. The partnership in the area of gas transportation activities will continue.

“In Oil & Gas, we are continuing our strategy of focusing on profitable growth at the source in our targeted oil and gas-rich regions,” said Dr. Kurt Bock, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE. “We look forward to further expanding the joint production of natural gas and condensate with our partner Gazprom in western Siberia.”

“This year marks the 25th anniversary of our successful partnership. Today’s signing represents a further milestone in this cooperation and will open new possibilities for our companies to implement important projects,” said Alexey Miller, Chairman of the Gazprom Management Committee.
 


2015/10/8   BASF 

BASF、中国における油性剤、およびワックスの生産能力を拡大

 アジア太平洋地域におけるパーソナルケア市場の高まる需要に対応
 新設する生産施設は2017年初めに稼働開始予定

BASFは上海の金山にある拠点に新たな工場を建設し、油性剤とワックスの生産能力を拡大します。今回の投資は現在の金山におけるワックスエステル、乳化剤、界面活性剤の生産を補完するものです。これによりBASFの現地における生産能力を高め、アジア太平洋地域で成長を見せているパーソナルケア市場のニーズに今まで以上に応えていきます。

優れた使い心地を求める強い需要に対応
アジアのビューティーケア、パーソナルケア業界は世界の市場でますます影響力を強めています。高まる消費者のニーズに応えるため、ブランド各社は高性能でユニークな美しさを備え、優れた質感と肌触りをもたらす製品を創り出す方法を積極的に模索しています。パーソナルケア業界におけるリーディングサプライヤーとして、BASFはグローバル・地域・国ごとのブランドのニーズに、より迅速に応えられるよう資源を集結しています。

BASFのケア・ケミカルズ事業部アジア太平洋地域担当シニア・バイスプレジデントのDr. トーマス・グローサーは次のように述べています。「油性剤やワックスは、最終製品の感触や肌触りを決める重要な要素です。中国は最大のパーソナルケア市場のひとつです。中国の生産施設を強化することで、この地域のお客様に、これまで以上の柔軟性を持って対応していくことができるようになります。当社の技術的サービス、市場に対する洞察や知識に加え、質の高い油性剤やワックスを安定して提供することができるようになれば、当社の強みが強化され、アジアのお客様のニーズに、より優れた形で応えていけるようになるでしょう。」 新設する工場は2017年第1四半期に稼働を開始する予定です。新工場は、アジア太平洋地域におけるBASF最大規模の研究拠点である、BASFイノベーション・キャンパス・アジア・パシフィック(上海)の近くに位置しています。これにより、パーソナルケア製品に対するアジア特有のニーズを満たす革新的な製品の開発において、緊密な連携が可能となります。

金山の生産拠点ではマスバランスモデルを使用したRSPO認証を取得
現在、金山の生産拠点ではワックスエステル、乳化剤、界面活性剤など、パーソナルケア製品に使用されるさまざまな原材料を製造しています。
油性剤とワックスの主な用途はスキンケア製品、ベビー&チャイルドケア製品、デオドラント、オーラルケア製品です。金山工場で生産されている製品には、パーム油(パーム核油)などの天然原料由来のものもあります。金山の生産拠点は、RSPO(持続可能なパーム油のための円卓会議)と呼ばれるサプライチェーン認証システムによる認証を取得しており、マスバランスモデル*を用いて、RSPO認証を受けた、持続可能なパーム油(パーム核油)ベースの製品を使用できるようにしています。

Dr. トーマス・グローサーは、さらに次のように述べています。「パーソナルケア市場のお客様の多くが、サステナビリティに関する国際的な要件の実現を掲げています。例えば、製品の製造に持続可能な原材料を用いるよう努力しています。市場におけるすべての利害関係者が協力して取り組み、持続可能なパーム油や、パーム核油の製造ならびに使用を促進させながら、経済発展を後押ししていくことは、共同責任であると私たちは考えています。RSPO認証を受けた製品を生産することは、BASFの戦略において不可欠な要素である持続可能な事業のニーズを満たす上で、重要なステップのひとつです。」
*RSPO認証パーム油と非認証パーム油の混合を可能にする、原産地追跡可能な認証システム

 


Oct 12, 2015

BASF and SINOPEC inaugurate world-scale isononanol plant in Maoming, China             
広東省茂名市

First isononanol (INA) plant in China to serve growing demand for next-generation plasticizers
Annual production capacity of 180,000 metric tons of INA
Another milestone in BASF and SINOPEC’s long-term partnership

BASF and China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (SINOPEC) today inaugurated their world-scale isononanol (INA) plant in Maoming Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone, Maoming, China. The plant will be run by BASF MPCC Company Limited (BMC), which is a 50-50 joint venture between BASF and SINOPEC. It has an annual capacity of 180,000 metric tons. This is the first INA plant in China and will serve the growing demand for next-generation plasticizers.

“The establishment of this plant is a perfect example of co-creation, bringing together the expertise of SINOPEC and BASF. This is also an important milestone for BASF because it helps us reach our own strategic goals. We are aiming to bring more of our production to the Asia Pacific region, where we will be closer to our direct customers and more closely in tune with the needs and the developments of key markets. Our midterm goal is that 75 percent of what we sell in this region is also produced in this region,” said Albert Heuser, President Functions Asia Pacific, President & Chairman Greater China, BASF.

“MPCC is one of the largest refining companies in SINOPEC, with excellent economic performance that matches the foremost enterprises of the SINOPEC group. As the leading chemical company, BASF brings both technological and economic strengths. With this cooperation, the resources of the two partners complement each other, creating a win-win strategic fit that will boost the growth of both companies,” said Yu Xizhi, Chairman of BMC.

INA is used for the production of diisononyl phthalate (DINP), a high molecular weight phthalate plasticizer. High molecular weight phthalate plasticizers have more favorable toxicological properties compared to low molecular weight phthalate plasticizers. The ongoing substitution of the low molecular weight phthalate plasticizers in the market by high molecular weight phthalates like DINP is expected to drive the demand for INA in the upcoming years. DINP is widely used as a plasticizer in industrial applications such as automotive, wires and cables, floorings, building and construction.

BASF and SINOPEC maintain a long-term partnership and jointly operate BASF-YPC Co. Ltd., a 50-50 joint venture formed in 2000 between BASF and SINOPEC in Nanjing, China.

2014/1/24

BASF and SINOPEC break ground on world-scale isononanol plant

BASF and China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (SINOPEC) broke ground today on the construction of its world-scale isononanol (INA) plant in Maoming Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone, Maoming, China. At start-up in 2015, the plant, which is the first of its kind in China, will serve the increasing market demand for next-generation plasticizers.
A newly-formed 50-50 joint venture company has been created, BASF MPCC Company Limited.


2015/12/2  Rubber and Plastics News   

BASF to purchase Lanxess' business line

BASF S.E. has signed an agreement to purchase Lanxess A.G.'s polyisobutene business, consisting of mainly intellectual property for a new technology to produce high molecular weight polyisobutene.

Lanxess said it will manufacture the new HM PIB line exclusively for BASF under a long-term toll manufacturing agreement, and BASF will market the product under the name Oppanol N, a BASF brand for HM PIB.

Neither firm would disclose financial terms of the deal or the length of the toll manufacturing agreement. BASF said its other polyisobutene offerings will not be affected. It does not operate any PIB manufacturing facilities in North America.

“The acquired technology provides an excellent opportunity of BASF to jointly grow together with our customers,” Martin Widmann, senior vice president of BASF's Fuel and Lubricant Solutions unit, said in a statement. “The transaction will result in enhanced security of HM PIB supply, and it provides the basis for long-term oriented sustainable growth with high quality products for a broad range of applications.”

A BASF spokesman said the company is a leader in the field of polyisobutene. Capacity constraints have restricted further growth of the global HM PIB market, but the acquisition puts BASF in a position to increase its supply capabilities and provide further security to supply the global market.

“HM PIB is used in a broad range of applications and industries,” the spokesman said in an email. “One example is roofing membranes used within the construction industry. Another example is the use as a raw material for adhesives and sealants.”

Oppanol has strong adhesion properties and well-balanced elasticity, making it suitable for pressure sensitive and hot melt adhesives in addition to many kinds of sealants, the spokesman said. Polyisobutene-based adhesive systems are very effective even on lightly soiled surfaces because of their high-oil absorption capacity and their ability to bind fillers.

BASF said it has more than 75 years of manufacturing PIB. The firm reported sales of more than $82.7 billion in 2014, with about 113,000 employees worldwide.

Lanxess is a specialty chemicals manufacturer that employs about 16,300 in 29 countries with 52 production sites worldwide. It reported 2014 sales of about $9 billion.


2016/2/17 

BASF、工業用塗料事業をAkzo Nobel に売却予定
 BASFとアクゾノーベル社が基本合意
 自動車用塗料事業におけるリーディングポジションを継続して拡大

BASFとAkzo Nobel は、BASF  Coatings division の工業用塗料事業(industrial coatings business)をアクゾノーベルに4億7,500万ユーロで売却することについて基本合意に至りました。
この取引には、Deeside(英国)とVanderbijlpark (南アフリカ)にある2つの製造拠点、技術、特許および商標が含まれる予定です。
BASFとアクゾノーベルは今後調印に向けて詳細を詰め、従業員代表者との協議および関係当局による承認を経て、2016年末までに取引の完了を予定しています。

BASFのコーティングス事業本部における工業用塗料事業は2015年に3億ユーロの売上を達成しました。コイル、パネルコーティング、壁紙用、風力向けおよび一般産業、商業輸送を含む多数の最終消費材向けに製品を供給しています。

「過去数年間にわたり私たちは魅力的な市場分野に注力してグローバルな工業用塗料事業を展開し、成功を収めてきました。今後は工業用塗料事業におけるリーディンググローバルプレーヤーであるアクゾノーベルのもと、同事業をさらに発展させていくことができる可能性を見出しています」と、BASFコーティングス事業本部プレジデントのマーカス・カミースは述べています。

この取引によりBASFは、中核をなす自動車用OEM塗料と自動車補修用塗料事業のみならず、ブラジルでのSuvinil® ブランドの卓越した装飾用塗料にさらに注力していく予定です。


2016/3/16   BASF 

Kolon PlasticsとBASF、韓国でのポリオキシメチレン(POM)の製造に向けて合弁会社を設立

 世界最大のPOM製造コンプレックスの建設に向けた提携
 高効率な製造技術を活用する合弁事業
 世界市場を対象としたスペシャリティ製品

Kolon PlasticsとBASFは3月16日、トランスポーテーション(自動車等の輸送関連産業)、建設、工業分野、消費材の市場で使用される、エンジニアリングプラスチックのポリアセタールポリオキシメチレン(POM)の製造に向け、韓国に折半出資の合弁会社「Kolon BASF innoPOM, Inc.」を設立する契約を締結しました。

合弁会社の年間生産量は70,000トンになる見込みで、金泉(韓国)にあるKolon Plasticsの、POMの製造が行われている既存施設内で開設される計画です。全体としては世界最大のPOM製造コンプレックスとなり、2018年下半期の稼働を予定しています。

Kolon Industries と東レは1996年、金泉市に Kolon 70%、東レ 30%でポリアセタールの製造販売のJV KTP Industries  (KOLON Toray Plastics)を設立した。
東レ独自開発の簡略化された重合プロセス
を採用した。
  1998年増資を東レが全額引受け東レ68.9%、Kolon Industries, Inc. 31.1%
2008年6月6日、東レはKTPへの出資を解消したと発表した。 同社は
KOLON Plastics と改称

経営資源の集中による樹脂事業のコアABS樹脂、ナイロン樹脂、PBT樹脂、PPS樹脂等)での競争力強化および事業拡大戦略に鑑み、出資を解消することとしたもので、同社が生産するポリアセタール樹脂の日本市場向け販売については従来どおり、東レインターナショナルを通じて継続する。

POMの製造において長年の経験を有する両社は、KOLONの効率性の高い製造技術を活用し、最高の品質を実現します。「新たな合弁事業は両社の強みにより、全体的な競争力をさらに高めることができます。世界をリードするKolon Plasticsの技術と効率性の高い既存のインフラ基盤が大きな相乗効果を生み出すでしょう。さらなる協力の機会につながるこの合弁事業に、大いに期待しています」とKOLON PLASTIPLASTICSのCEOを務める張喜九氏は述べています。

今後、両社それぞれの製品名とフォーミュレーションで、世界中で製品が販売される予定です。「KOLON とBASFは、長年にわたり素晴らしいビジネス関係を築き上げてきました」とBASFのパフォーマンスマテリアルズ事業本部プレジデントのライマー・ヤーンは述べています。「POM市場は世界中で拡大しています。この度の合弁事業により、高性能で革新的なスペシャリティ製品でお客様をサポートする能力が、特にアジアで強化されることになります。」 2018年下半期に韓国の新工場が始動する後、BASFはルートヴィッヒスハーフェンにおけるPOMの製造を中止する予定です。

ポリオキシメチレン樹脂は、複雑な高耐久性部品に使用されるエンジニアリングプラスチックです。高い強度と弾性、摩擦性能や耐薬品性により、自動車用部品のほか、電気/電子製品、消費財、医療用品、建設品に幅広く利用されています。

KOLONは自社のPOM製品ラインをKocetal® の製品名で提供しています。一方、BASFはUltraform®(ウルトラフォルム)の製品名で、幅広く応用できるPOM 製品を提供しています。

■Kolon Plasticsについて
エンジニアリングプラスチックと高性能素材の世界的な主要企業であるKolon Plasticsは、エンジニアリングプラスチックの製造と販売に特化する韓国唯一の企業であり、お客様から求められるさまざまな機能を備える、世界最高品質のベース剤や複合剤を提供しています。また、日本、米国、ヨーロッパを含む世界90か国以上で販売ネットワークを展開しているほか、豊富な経験を備える国内事業所も設置しています。これまでに培った技術、R&D、世界的なマーケティングの能力に基づいて、お客様の視点からさまざまなサービスを提供しています。また、強い意志を持って、「世界市場をリードする材料メーカー」への成長を目指しています。韓国証券取引所に上場しているKolon Plasticsの詳細についてはwww.kolonplastics.com をご覧ください。

ーーー

Kolon グループは1957年に Korean Nylon を設立した。1969年にKorean Polyester を設立した。
1981年にそれぞれが改称していた Kolon (Nylon) Industries Kolon (Polyester) Industries が合併して Kolon Industries となった。

別途、Kolon グループは1976年にKolon Chemical を設立した。石油樹脂からスタートし、SAP、フェノール樹脂、ポリウレタン樹脂、熱可塑性ポリウレタン樹脂に拡大した。中国の蘇州にフェノール樹脂のJVを持っている。
2007年6月、
Kolon Industries と合併した。

現在、Kolon Industries Chemical Material 部門で繊維、産業資材、フィルム、エレクトロニック資材、エンプラを、Performance Material 部門で石油樹脂、SAP、フェノール樹脂、ポリウレタン樹脂、熱可塑性ポリウレタン樹脂を扱っている。

Kolon SAPでは世界の6番目のメーカー。
1985
年に韓国科学技術院と共同でSAPの製造技術を開発、1987年に仁川で商業生産を行なった。
1993
年に2008年6月24日、Kolon Industries から高吸水性樹脂(SAP)事業を87百万ドルで買収する契約を締結したと発表した。


Apr 20, 2016 

BASF signs agreement to acquire automotive refinish coatings assets of Guangdong Yinfan Chemistry  廣東銀帆化學
  • Complementary product portfolio and customer base to boost BASF’s automotive refinish coatings business in China and Asia Pacific
  • Stronger local production footprint to enhance customer proximity with wider product portfolio in different market segments

BASF has signed an agreement to acquire the assets of Guangdong Yinfan Chemistry Co., Ltd. (“Yinfan”) in China. With this acquisition, BASF will establish a stronger coatings production footprint by gaining access to a state-of-the-art automotive refinish coatings plant in China. It will also enable BASF to broaden its automotive refinish portfolio in Asia Pacific by adding the Yinfan line of products to its successful global brands including Glasurit®, R-M®, baslac® and Norbin®.

“The acquisition underlines our strong commitment to growing our automotive coatings business and further investing in emerging markets,” said Markus Kamieth, President of BASF’s Coatings division. “With this acquisition, we will broaden our portfolio and gain access to a strong distribution network, which will strengthen our position in the fast-growing Chinese automotive aftermarket.”

The closing is expected in the second half of 2016, subject to necessary regulatory, statutory and other approvals. Both parties have agreed not to disclose financial details of the transaction.


Apr 22, 2016

BASF to divest global Polyolefin Catalysts business to W.R. Grace & Co.

Agreement has been reached and signed
Targeted transaction comprises production plants in Pasadena, Texas, and Tarragona, Spain

BASF has signed an agreement to sell its global Polyolefin Catalysts business to W.R. Grace & Co. Currently, the Polyolefin Catalysts business is part of BASF’s Catalysts division. BASF and Grace intend to complete the transaction in the third quarter of 2016.

The targeted transaction includes technologies, patents, trademarks and the transfer of BASF’s production plants in Pasadena, Texas, and Tarragona, Spain. It is intended that approximately 170 employees globally will also transfer to Grace.

The planned divestiture remains subject to the required consultation with employee representatives and certain regulatory approvals.

“This sale was the best course of action for both the Catalysts division and for the long-term interests of the Polyolefin Catalysts business and its employees,” said Kenneth Lane, President, Catalysts division, BASF.

“With this divestiture, we will continue to sharpen our focus on key growth areas, including our Chemical Catalysts and Refinery Catalysts businesses,” said Lane.


Jun 17, 2016

BASF to acquire global surface treatment provider Chemetall

Leading global surface treatment business will complement BASF’s Coatings portfolio
Acquisition will significantly enhance BASF Coatings’ position as a complete solutions provider to global customers

BASF has signed an agreement to acquire Albemarle’s global surface treatment business, Chemetall. The purchase price is $3.2 billion. The transaction is subject to approval by the relevant authorities and is expected to close by the end of 2016.

Chemetall is a global technology and innovation leader in the metals surface treatment market, and is headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany. It has approximately 2,500 employees globally, and operates 21 production sites in more than 20 countries, as well as 10 R&D locations and 24 sales offices. For the full calendar year of 2015, its sales were $845 million.

“Chemetall offers a strong strategic fit for our coatings business, and supports BASF’s aim to grow profitably in downstream, innovation and solution-focused businesses,” said Wayne T. Smith, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE, responsible for the Coatings division.

Chemetall develops and manufactures customized technology and system solutions for surface treatment. Their products protect metals from corrosion, facilitate forming and machining, allow parts to be optimally prepared for the painting process and ensure proper coating adhesion. These chemicals are used in a wide range of industries and end-markets, primarily automotive, aerospace, coil, and metal forming.

“Chemetall complements our current portfolio by adding the highly attractive surface treatment business to our coatings offerings. We look forward to joining forces with Chemetall’s industry-leading expert team to further advance innovation and know-how-driven surface technologies for our customers around the world,” said Markus Kamieth, President of BASF’s Coatings division.


Dec 14, 2016  BASF

BASF completes acquisition of Chemetall

BASF has completed its acquisition of Albemarle’s global surface treatment business, Chemetall. Through this acquisition, BASF’s Coatings division expands its portfolio to become a more complete solutions provider.

BASF combines its know-how in chemistry and coatings applications with Chemetall’s market-leading expertise in surface treatment. The combined businesses will benefit from each other’s global infrastructure, scale and market access, driving new growth opportunities by offering an unmatched solutions competence to customers.

---

Rockwood の現在のコア事業のリチウムと表面処理事業は元はドイツのChemetall の事業で、1982年にドイツのMetallgesellschaft(現在のMG Technologies)の子会社として創設された。

その後、ChemetallはMG Technologiesの子会社のDynamit Nobelの部門となった。

2004年8月にMG Technologies Chemetall を含むDynamit Nobelの4部門をRockwoodに売却、Rockwoodは2012年にChemetall を分割し、リチウム事業をRockwood Lithiumとし、表面処理事業をChemetall とした。

 


 


2016/9/8    BASF、ウルトラゾーン®のグローバルの製造能力を拡大  
 韓国の麗水(ヨス)に製造ラインを増設、 高性能スペシャリティプラスチックへの需要拡大に対応
 製品群全体の年間製造能力がさらに6,000トン増大

BASFは、韓国の麗水工場にあるポリアリールスルホン樹脂「ウルトラゾーン®」の製造ラインを増設します。新たな製造ラインは2017年末に稼働する予定で、年間6,000トンの製造能力が加わり、 BASFグローバル全体の「ウルトラゾーン®」製造能力は2万4,000トンに達する予定です。 BASFは、ドイツのルートヴィッヒスハーフェンと、韓国の麗水(ヨス)でウルトラゾーン®を製造しています。2014年に韓国で新工場の稼働を開始して以来、BASFはこの高性能熱可塑性プラスチックを世界中に供給し続けています。両工場では、ウルトラゾーン®製品群を世界中のお客様への製品供給を柔軟かつ最適化できるよう設計されています。
ウルトラゾーン®は、BASFのPES:ポリエーテルスルホン樹脂(ウルトラゾーン® E)、PPSU:ポリスルホン樹脂(ウルトラゾーン® S)、およびポリフェニルスルホン樹脂(ウルトラゾーン® P)の製品群の商標です。
BASFパフォーマンスマテリアルズ事業本部プレジデントのライマー・ ヤーンは次のように述べています。「今回の増設は、世界市場の拡大に対応するためのものです。2つの主要地域における製造活動が強化されることで、世界中のお客様にメリットをもたらします。」

ルートヴィッヒスハーフェン 12,000t

麗水 1期(下記)

6,000t
          2期(今回) 6,000t
合計 24,000t

--------

2014/1/28

BASF、ドイツ以外で初めてのウルトラゾーン®製造工場の 稼働を開始

アジア太平洋地域での高性能スペシャリティプラスチックへの需要 拡大に対応するため、韓国の麗水(ヨス)に世界規模の工場を建設
年間 6,000 トンの製造能力

BASFは、高性能熱可塑性プ ラスチックである「ウルトラゾーン®」ポリアリールスルホン樹脂の供給強 化を図るため、韓国・麗水(ヨス)にある新工場の稼働を開始したことを 1 月20 日に発表しました。年間6,000 トンの製造能力を持つこの新工場により、アジア太平洋地域で拡大を続ける市場への供給を強化してい く計画です。

BASF パフォーマンスマテリアルズ事業本部プレジデントのライマー・ヤーンは次のように述べています。「当社の高性能スペシャリティプラス チック製品であるウルトラゾーン®の韓国における製造は、2020 年まで にアジア太平洋地域で販売する全BASF 製品の約75%を現地生産す るという当社の目標の達成を後押しするほか、急成長する市場への当社
のコミットメントを示しています。

この新工場は、ドイツ以外で初めて建設されたウルトラゾーン®の製造 工場です。これによりBASF の「ウルトラゾーン®」ポリアリールスルホン 樹脂の世界全体の製造能力は1 万8,000 トンになります。また、今回の 投資によって、麗水(ヨス)工場において50 名の新たな雇用が創出され ます。

ウルトラゾーン®は、エレクトロニクスや自動車、航空宇宙産業などで、耐熱軽量部品の製造に幅広く使用されています。さらに、水処理膜や水道管継手、エスプレッソマシーンの食品接触部品の取り付け具、電子レンジ対応の食器などにも使われているほか、炭素繊維コンポジット材料 の製造にも用いられています。

BASF 韓国のマネージング・ディレクターであるシン・ウソンは、次のよう に述べています。「麗水(ヨス)工場を通じて、当社と地域のお客様との 距離が縮まり、地域の主要産業の成長に今まで以上に貢献することが できます。世界中でさまざまな用途に使用されているウルトラゾーン®は、こうした産業の成長を支えています。また、より短いリードタイムでお客 様の成長に貢献できることもウルトラゾーン®の現地生産のメリット です。

電気・電子機器の製造において世界の上位 3 カ国に入る韓国では、ウルトラゾーン®の現地調達・生産の利点を大いに生かすことができま す。また、麗水(ヨス)に工場を置くことで、BASF は中国や日本といった 他の主要市場にもウルトラゾーン®を供給できるようになります。

ウルトラゾーン®は、BASF のポリエーテルスルホン樹脂(ウルトラゾーン ® E)、ポリスルホン樹脂(ウルトラゾーン® S)およびポリフェニルスルホ ン樹脂(ウルトラゾーン® P)の製品群の商標です。ウルトラゾーン®は、特性が変化することなく最高220℃の熱に耐えることができるほか、優れた化学的安定性を有しています。
 



September 12, 2016  

BASF trimming caprolactam production in Europe

BASF SE plans to remove more than 200 million pounds of annual capacity for nylon feedstock caprolactam in Europe in the next 18 months.

The move is being made to strengthen BASF’s nylon 6 value chain in a difficult market environment, officials with the firm in Ludwigshafen, Germany, said in a Sept. 12 news release. After the cuts, BASF still will have almost 900 million pounds of annual caprolactam production capacity in the region.

The realigned production structure “gives [BASF] greater flexibility in managing our capacities,” polyamides and precursors Europe head Joachim Queisser said in the release.

All of the caprolactam capacity to be closed is located at four plants at BASF’s flagship site in Ludwigshafen. Those plants now will be fully or partially closed. Eighty workers from those plants will be reassigned to other positions in Ludwigshafen.


Nov 16, 2016

BASF plans a stepwise capacity increase of its North American MDI production
  • BASF to support continued growth of regional MDI market
  • Engineering for capacity increase of MDI unit at Geismar, Louisiana, site has begun
  • Latest proprietary technologies ensure best-in-class productivity and energy efficiency

BASF has started engineering for a stepwise capacity increase of its methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) production facilities at the company’s Verbund site in Geismar, Louisiana. Capacity will be increased incrementally from 300,000 metric tons per year to around 600,000 metric tons per year.

“The engineering for the capacity increase of the MDI synthesis has already started. In subsequent steps, which will be implemented in alignment with business development, the MDI precursor units in Geismar will be expanded accordingly,” said Stefano Pigozzi, President of BASF’s Monomers division. “The usage of latest proprietary technologies will ensure best-in-class productivity and energy efficiency.”

Stefan Doerr, head of the regional business unit Monomers North America, added: “With this investment, BASF will support the growth of its North American customers. Our existing infrastructure at the Geismar site combined with the competitive raw materials based on shale gas make the Geismar site ideally suited for this investment. The experienced BASF team at the site will ensure smooth implementation of the project.”

MDI is an important component for polyurethanes – an extremely versatile plastics material. It contributes to improved insulation, provides lighter materials for cars, and helps save energy in buildings.


Dec 15, 2016  BASF

BASF completes sale of its industrial coatings businesses to AkzoNobel

 

BASF has completed the sale of its global industrial coatings businesses to AkzoNobel. The transaction includes technologies, patents and trademarks, as well as the transfer of dedicated production sites in Deeside, United Kingdom, and Vanderbijlpark, South Africa.  

As a result of this transaction, AkzoNobel will now operate the global coil, furniture foil and panel coatings, wind coatings and general industry businesses acquired from BASF, as well as the commercial transport business in EMEA. These businesses generated sales of approximately €300 million in 2015.

BASF’s automotive OEM and automotive refinish coatings businesses, as well as its decorative paints business with its leading brand Suvinil® in Brazil, remain part of BASF’s Coatings division. In addition, BASF recently completed the acquisition of Chemetall, a leading global supplier of applied surface treatments, which is now also part of the Coatings division.

About BASF’s Coatings division
The Coatings division of BASF is a global expert in the development, production and marketing of innovative and sustainable automotive OEM and refinish coatings, as well as decorative paints. We create advanced performance solutions and drive performance, design and new applications to meet our partners’ needs all over the world. BASF shares skills, knowledge and resources of interdisciplinary and global teams for the benefit of customers by operating a collaborative network of sites in Europe, North America, South America and Asia Pacific. In 2015, the Coatings division achieved global sales of about €3.2 billion.

In 2016, BASF acquired Chemetall, a leading global supplier of applied surface treatments for metal, plastic and glass substrates in a wide range of industries and end markets. With this expansion in portfolio, BASF becomes a more complete solution provider for coatings.


 

Jul 13, 2017 BASF

BASF introduces first new class of public health insecticide for malaria prevention in more than 30 years
  • WHO recommendation for game-changing mosquito net
  • First bed net to contain non-pyrethroid chemistry
  • Collaboration with IVCC and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine unlocks breakthrough in malaria fight

BASF has received a recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO) for Interceptor® G2, a long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito net (LN) based on chlorfenapyr. Chlorfenapyr is a completely new insecticide class for combating mosquitoes for public health. This is the first WHO recommendation for a product based on a new insecticide class in more than 30 years.

クロルフェナピル(Chlorfenapyr)は有機ハロゲン化合物の一種。
American Cyanamid(現BASF)が開発した殺虫剤で、ピロール系の構造を持ち、果樹・野菜のコナガやハダニの呼吸系を阻害し殺虫効果を現す。日本では1996年4月25日に農薬登録を受け、日本曹達から「コテツ」の商品名で発売されている。

Working with the Innovative Vector Control Consortium (IVCC) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine in a collaboration lasting over a decade, BASF’s scientists successfully repurposed chlorfenapyr to be effective on mosquito nets and meet stringent WHO performance thresholds for public health.

Dave Malone, IVCC Technical Manager, said “The collaboration with BASF gave us access to an insecticide with a rare combination of attributes: New to public health, effective against resistant mosquitoes, and able to coat polyester netting with a long-lasting formulation.”   

A second chlorfenapyr product, an indoor residual spray named Sylando® 240SC, is also in the final phases of WHO evaluation.

Around the world, every two minutes a child dies from malaria and there are more than 200 million new cases every year. Malaria is also a major cause of global poverty and its burden is greatest among the most vulnerable.

Long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets (LN) and indoor residual sprays are the cornerstones of malaria prevention, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. But 60 countries have already reported resistance to at least one class of insecticide used in them. Part of the problem is that there were previously only four WHO-recommended insecticide classes for adult mosquito control: Only one of them, the pyrethroid class, was recommended for LNs. Continual use of the same insecticides enabled the highly-adaptable mosquito to develop significant levels of resistance.  

Independent trials in Benin, Burkina Faso, Tanzania and Ivory Coast have proven the efficacy of Interceptor G2 and Sylando 240SC against local insecticide-resistant mosquitoes.

Medical entomologist Professor Hilary Ranson from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine has studied the problem for many years. “We’ve got to take insecticide resistance very seriously,” she said. “In some countries, the local mosquito population has increased its level of resistance 1,000-fold. It has been years since a new class of public health insecticide has appeared on the market. Alternatives are urgently needed.”

Following the WHO recommendation, BASF will start preparations to launch Interceptor G2 for malaria prevention. Depending on local registration processes, the new mosquito net is expected to be available to health ministries and aid organizations starting towards the end of this year.

“New resistance management products are desperately needed to prevent mosquito-borne diseases and save lives,” said Egon Weinmueller, Head of BASF’s public health business. “This development breakthrough strengthens my personal belief that we really can be the generation to end malaria for good.”

About chlorfenapyr
Chlorfenapyr was derived by isolating a toxin from the Streptomyces fumanus actinomycete bacterium. It is new to the public health market, but has been used in agriculture and urban pest control, including in homes and food handling areas, worldwide since 1995. Chlorfenapyr belongs to the pyrrole class of chemistry and has an entirely different mode of action from current WHO-approved insecticides for public health. It works by disrupting the insect’s ability to produce energy. This makes it unlikely to show cross-resistance in mosquitoes that are resistant to currently registered public health insecticides. Further information is available on
 publichealth.basf.com.

 

American Cyanamid



June 26, 2018  

EU to investigate BASF's Solvay nylon deal

 
The European Commission on Tuesday opened an in-depth investigation into the proposed purchase by Germany’s BASF of Solvay’s nylon business, saying such a deal could reduce competition in the supply of the nylon production chain.
 
BASF agreed to buy Solvay’s global polyamide business in September for 1.6 billion euros (1.41 billion pounds), aiming to enhance its access to key growth markets in Asia and South America.

“We need to carefully assess whether the proposed acquisition would lead to higher prices or less choice for European businesses and, ultimately, consumers,” European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager.

The Commission, which oversees competition in the European Union, said it has until Oct. 31 to decide on whether it would let the deal go ahead.

発表文

Solvay is currently the only manufacturer in the European Economic Area with production assets at all levels of the nylon production chain, from ADN to nylon compounds and nylon fibres. Currently, Solvay sells an important part of its production of intermediates at various levels of the value chain to other companies active in making nylon compounds and fibres.

BASF is also vertically integrated, but does not produce ADN. It currently only sells a small part of its production of intermediates because it uses almost all of its production internally, for the production of nylon compounds and fibers.

The proposed transaction would create an important player in the nylon compounds market with a market size almost double that of the closest competitor. The merged entity would also control substantial parts of the merchant markets and of the production capacities at all levels of the nylon production chain. Moreover, no other player would be similarly fully integrated in the production chain. Competitors will thus depend on the merged entity to continue to supply them with one or more essential inputs.

In addition, there is no indication that competition could be preserved by new entrants, since access to essential inputs (such as ADN) is limited and critical to be able to compete effectively.

The Commission's preliminary competition concerns

At this stage, the Commission is concerned that the proposed transaction would reduce competition in the markets where the merged entity would be active. In particular, the Commission is concerned that this transaction could lead to higher prices due to the increased market power of the merged entity in the nylon compounds market, as well as due to its enhanced position in the nylon production chain.

In particular, the Commission's initial market investigation raised competition concerns for the supply of the following essential inputs for the nylon production chain: ADN, Hexamethylene Diamine, Adipic Acid, Hexamethylenediamine adipate Salt, Polyamide 6.6 Base Polymer and Polyamide 6.6 Engineering Plastics.

The initial market investigation also showed that competitors of the merged entity fear that it would stop supplying them with these essential inputs because of its own increased needs downstream.

The Commission will now carry out an in-depth investigation into the effects of this transaction to determine whether its initial competition concerns are confirmed.

The transaction was notified to the Commission on 22 May 2018. The Commission now has 90 working days, until 31 October 2018, to take a decision. The opening of an in-depth investigation does not prejudge the outcome of the investigation.

 

Sep 19, 2017

BASF to acquire Solvay’s global polyamide business
  • Position as solution provider to various industries to be strengthened
  • Backward integration into key raw materials for engineering plastics to be enhanced

BASF and Solvay have signed an agreement related to the sale of Solvay’s integrated polyamide business to BASF. The purchase price on a cash and debt-free basis would be €1.6 billion. According to applicable laws, the intended transaction is subject to consultations with the relevant social bodies of Solvay, following which both companies will enter a binding purchase agreement. Solvay and BASF aim to close the transaction in the third quarter of 2018, after customary regulatory approvals have been obtained and the formal consent of a joint venture partner has been received. The partner has already committed to grant its consent subject to the delivery of definitive documents with BASF.

The acquisition would complement BASF’s engineering plastics portfolio and expand the company’s position as a solution provider for the transportation, construction, industrial applications and consumer industries. Regionally, the transaction would enhance access to key growth markets in Asia and South America. At the same time, the purchase would strengthen BASF’s polyamide 6.6 value chain through increased polymerization capacities and the backward integration into the key raw material ADN (adipodinitrile).

For the full year 2016, net sales of the business to be purchased from Solvay amounted to €1,315 million and EBITDA to around €200 million. It has approximately 2,400 employees globally, thereof approximately 1,300 in France. Worldwide, it operates 12 production sites, 4 R&D locations and 10 technical support centers. The business would be integrated into BASF’s Performance Materials and Monomers divisions.

 

BASF ポリアミド ( PA 6, 66, 6/66, 6/6T )  

ウルトラミッドは、PA6、PA66、それにPA6/66、PA66/6や部分的に芳香族ポリアミドなどの各種コポリマーをベースにしたポリアミド成形材料です。その優れた特性により、これらの材料は、殆どすべてのエンジニアリング分野において、高品質電気絶縁材料として多様な構成部品や機械部品に、また 様々な特殊用途に、不可欠な存在となっています。ウルトラミッドは、その機械的高強度、剛性、熱安定性においては際立っています。さらに、ウルトラミッド は低温下での耐衝撃性に優れていると同時に、摺動特性や優れた成形性においても有利な条件を備えています。

BASFは2015年5月6日、中国・上海の上海化学工業区内に Ultramid® (ポリアミド 6 および 6/6.6 )の重合工場を開設しました。新工場は年間 100,000 トンの製造能力を有し、将来にわたり BASF の現地生産およびサプライネットワークを強化し、ますます発展しつつあるアジア太平洋地域の市場に貢献します。

ーーー

Solvay

SolvayRhodiaは、2011年43日、SolvayRhodiaの株式100%の友好的買収オファーを行う枠組み協定を締結した。
買収額は総額
34億ユーロで、買収価格は41日株価に50%のプレミアムをのせたものとなる。

統合会社の売上高は120億ユーロとなるが、その強みとして、Solvayは以下の点をあげている。

 ・統合売上高の90%は世界で上位3位に位置する製品

  セグメント 世界順位 製品
Solvay  Specialty Polymers  No.1 高機能エンプラ、フッ素ポリマー
Oxygen  No.1 過酸化水素
Minerals  No.1 ソーダ灰、重曹
Vinyls  No.3  
Rhodia Polyamide Materials  No.2 ポリアミド6.6
Consumer Chemicals  No.1 スペシャルティ界面活性剤、燐化学品、バニリン用ジフェノール
Advanced Materials  No.1 シリカ、レアアース製品

2011/4/12 SolvayRhodiaを友好的買収 


28. September 2017       

Acquisition of BASF Pischelsdorf, Austria SBR Business


Synthomer plc, a leading specialty chemicals company, today announces the acquisition of the BASF Austrian SBR business and assets.

The Business produces Styrene Butadiene Rubber (“SBR”) used in the paper industry, notably in packaging end-markets. The Business operates from one site in Pischelsdorf, Austria. The acquisition will enhance Synthomer’s SBR business and production network for paper/packaging applications as well as increase the group’s access to attractive new opportunities across Europe.

The acquisition is expected to complete early in 2018 following receipt of regulatory approvals and satisfaction of other closing conditions.

Calum MacLean, Chief Executive Officer of Synthomer, said:
“This is another bolt-on acquisition that represents an excellent fit for Synthomer. It underscores our long term commitment to our customers in the paper industry, whilst providing us with an additional site to strengthen our network and stronger access to growing packaging end-markets in Europe. We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues and integrating the business into our European network in the first half of next year.”

 

Synthomer is one of the world’s major suppliers of latices and speciality emulsion polymers supporting leadership positions in many market segments including coatings, construction, textiles, paper and synthetic latex gloves. The company has its Head Office in London, UK and provides customer focused services from operational centres in Marl, Germany, Harlow, UK, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

 


 

2017年9月25日 BASF                                2012/1/14 南京のBASF-YPCの2期計画が完成

BASF、中国・南京の特殊アミン製造施設の生産能力をさらに拡大

  • 特殊アミンの多品種生産工場
  • アジアにおける特殊アミン類への需要の高まりに対応
  • 2019年に稼働開始予定

BASFは、中国・南京ケミカルインダストリーパーク内にある既存の自社拠点に、特殊アミン製造工場を新設します。新しい多品種生産工場では年間21,000トンの製造が可能であり、南京の特殊アミン製造施設におけるBASFのアミン類ポートフォリオをさらに拡充します。工場は2019年の稼働開始を予定しており、主に1,2-プロパンジアミン(1,2-PDA)、n-オクチルアミン(n-OA)、ポリエーテルアミン(PEA)の製造を行います。

BASF 中間体事業本部のプレジデントであるシュテファン・ブランクは、次のように述べています。「BASFは世界中で幅広いアミン類を提供しており、今回の投資はアジア太平洋地域市場の需要の高まりに対応していくという、当社の継続的なコミットメントを反映しています。BASFはアミンの開発、製造において長年の経験を有しており、今回新設する工場は、こうした多彩な中間体製品市場におけるBASFの世界的なリーダーとしての地位を強化することになるでしょう。」

BASF中間体事業本部アジア太平洋地域担当シニア・バイスプレジデントであるナラヤン・クリシュナモハンは、次のように述べています。「私たちは今回の投資によって、エポキシ樹脂の処方材料、スパンデックス、 除草剤や殺虫剤等の農薬製品の材料など、様々な業界や用途で中間体として用いられる、特殊アミン類に対するアジア太平洋地域での需要の高まりに対応できるようになります。生産能力の拡大により、私たちはアジア太平洋地域のお客様に、質の高い製品を安定して適時供給していけるでしょう。」

BASFは、ドイツにあるルートヴィッヒスハーフェンのフェアブント拠点でも1,2-PDAおよびn-OAを生産しています。PEAの生産はルートヴィッヒスハーフェンの他、米国・ガイスマー、中国・南京のBASF拠点で行っています。

新設工場で生産する主な製品:

1,2-プロパンジアミン(1,2-PDA)は、弾性繊維の製造に必要不可欠な原料です。また、医薬品、農薬製品、着色剤、繊維助剤、顔料、蛍光増白剤の製造原料としても用いられます。表面処理製品では腐食防止剤として用いられています。

n-オクチルアミン(n-OA)は、抗菌剤、殺生物剤の合成に用いる化学中間体です。

ポリエーテルアミン(PEA)は、ポリウレア塗料、接着剤、プラスチックの生産などに用いる化学中間体です。PEAは、風力発電所用のブレードの生産に用いる、エポキシ樹脂ベースのシステムの硬化剤としても用いられています。BASFはBaxxodur®(バクソデュアー)というブランドでPEAを提供しています。

BASFは約300品目のアミン類を取り扱っており、このようなタイプの化学中間体において、世界で最も多様な化学中間体ポートフォリオを有しています。アルキルアミン、アルカノールアミン、アルコキシアルキルアミンの他、複素環アミン、芳香族アミン、また特殊アミンも提供しています。さらに、高度な光学純度と化学的純度を備えるキラルアミンのポートフォリオも拡充されました。こうした多彩な製品は主に、プロセスケミカルや医薬品、農薬製品、化粧品、および洗剤の製造に使用されています。また、コーティング剤、特殊プラスチック、複合材料、特殊ファイバーの製造にも役立てられています。

 


 

Nov 24, 2017 BASF   

BASF confirms discussions with Letter One

BASF is in discussions regarding a potential merger of BASF Group’s oil and gas activities with Letter One’s oil and gas activities bundled in the DEA Group.

BASF would hold the majority of the shares in the joint enterprise. An Initial Public Offering (IPO) of the joint enterprise would be an option in the medium term. The outcome of the discussions is open and there is no assurance that any transaction will be consummated.

BASF’s oil and gas activities are bundled in the Wintershall Group. Wintershall focuses on exploration and production in oil and gas-rich regions in Europe, North Africa, Russia, South America and the Middle East.

Together with Gazprom, the company is also active in the transport of natural gas in Europe.

For the full year 2016, net sales of the Oil & Gas segment of the BASF Group amounted to around €2.8 billion, EBITDA was around €1.6 billion and EBIT around €500 million.

 

LetterOne について

ドイツの大手エネルギー会社RWE AGは2014年3月17日、石油・ガス事業子会社のRWE DEA AGを51億ユーロ(約6億ユーロの負債込み)でLetterOne Groupに売却する契約を締結したと発表した。
Deaは英国、ドイツ、ノルウェーなどで石油とガスの採掘を行っている。

RWE Deaは現在開発中では最大のガス田の一つの北海南部のBreaghガス田のオペレーターを務めている。

脱原発政策が進むドイツでは電力大手が危機的状況に陥っている。再生可能エネルギーの普及で電力市価が下落し、火力発電所の収益が悪化しているためで、RWEは2013年決算で1949年以来の赤字(2,757百万ユーロ)に転落し、307億ユーロの負債に苦しんでいる。

このため、RWEは資産の売却を進めており、2013年に石油・ガス事業の売却を決定した。
報道によると、LetterOneのほかに、BASF子会社のWintershallやハンガリーの石油・ガス会社MOLなどもRWE Dea 買収を狙っていたとされる。

RWEのライバルの EON SE も200億ユーロの資産売却を行った。

売却先のLetterOne Groupは、ロシアの新興財閥のAlfa Groupがグローバルに石油・ガス事業を展開するために2013年に設立、200億ドル以上を投資するとしている。当面100億ドル以上を投資するとしており、多数のエネルギー企業の経営者を顧問として雇っている。

Alfa GroupはTNK-BPの株主であったAlfa-Access-Renova(AAR)の株主。

AARはTNK-BPの50%持分を280億ドルでRosneftに売却したが、Alfa Groupは入手した140億ドルの一部をLetterOne 設立に充てた。

AAR Alfa Group ロシアの新興財閥で、ロシア最大の金融産業コングロマリットのひとつ。
Mikhail Fridman と German Khan が50%ずつ保有。
Access Industries ロシア生まれの Len Blavatnik が設立し所有する米国の投資会社で、Basellを買収した。
Renova Holding ロシアの長者番付では第5位のViktor Feliksovich Vekselberg (SUALの大株主)のベンチャーキャピタル。

2014/3/24   ドイツ大手エネルギー会社RWE、石油・ガス事業をロシアの富豪に売却

 


 

2018年3月7日 

BASF、バイエルの野菜種子事業の取得について同社と独占的に協議

BASFはNunhems®ブランドで世界的に販売されているバイエルの野菜種子事業の買収について、最終的な合意に向けてバイエルと独占的に協議しています。バイエルはモンサント買収の計画の一環としてこの事業の売却を検討しています。この取引により、BASFは将来的に種子事業と農業関連製品における市場地位を強化します。

2017年10月13日に、BASFはバイエルの大部分の種子事業および非選択性除草剤事業の買収について同社と合意しました。買収金額は59億ユーロですが、取引実行時に調整の可能性があります。

買収の対象となるのは、バイエルのグルホシネート・アンモニウムを用いた非選択性除草剤のグローバル事業と、北米において販売されているLibertyLink®の技術を用いて開発したキャノーラ交配種(ブランド名:InVigor®)や、主に欧州で販売されている菜種、南北アメリカ・欧州で販売されている綿花、南北アメリカで販売されている大豆など、特定の市場の主要な穀物や綿花などの作物に対する種子事業が含まれます。

またこの取引にはこれらの作物に関するバイエルの形質研究、および育種技術、LibertyLink® の技術及びその商標も含まれます。

本買収は、農薬事業の拡充と、価値ある資産を保有しての主要な市場の種子事業への参入という点でBASFの農薬事業を補完します。

---

Bayerは10月13日、Monsanto買収を考慮し、特定の Crop Science事業をBASFに59億ユーロで売却すると発表した。売却事業の2016年の売上高は約13億ユーロ。Monsantoの買収の完了を条件とする。

売却する事業は次の通り。

1) 非選択性のアミノ酸系除草剤グルホシネートアンモニウム塩(製品名:Liberty®、Basta® 、Finale® ) 対象地域は全世界。

2) 下記の種子事業

北米でのハイブリッド キャノーラ油 InVigor®(LibertyLink® 技術使用:除草剤Liberty に耐性を持つ)
欧州での菜種(oilseed rape)
欧州、米大陸での棉(インドと南アは対象外)
米大陸での大豆
関連知財、設備、育種技術
 LibertyLink® 形質 及び trademark
 従業員1,800 人超 (主として、米国、ドイツ、ブラジル、カナダ、ベルギー。BASFは最低3年の雇用継続を約束)

2017/10/16 Bayer、Monsanto買収の独禁法対策で、BASFに一部事業を売却 


Apr 11, 2018 

BASF starts new production line of Ultrason® in Yeosu, Korea
  • Extension to serve growing global demand for high performance thermoplastic in automotive, electronics and water filtration industries
  • Additional annual capacity of 6,000 metric tons of polyarylsulfone benefits customers in Asia with fast response and proximity

BASF has started up a new production line for its high-temperature resistant thermoplastic Ultrason® (polyarylsulfone) at its site in Yeosu 麗水, Korea. With the new line the global annual capacity for Ultrason® will increase by 6,000 metric tons to 24,000 metric tons, serving the growing market demand worldwide. The plant in Yeosu was opened in 2014 as the first Ultrason® plant in Asia.

    2007 2014/1 2018/4
Ludwigshafen 6,000 12,000 12,000 12,000
Yeosu 0 0 6,000 12,000
Total 6,000 12,000 18,000 24,000
 
Ultrason® ポリエーテルスルフォン / ポリスルフォン ( PES, PSU )  
 
ウルトラゾーン樹脂はポリスルフォンおよびポリエーテルスルフォンから生成される非晶質熱可塑性材料であり、極めて高い耐熱性をもっています。

ウルトラゾーンSおよびウルトラゾーンEは、例えばナイロン、ポリカーボネート、ポリオキシメチレン、ポリ(ア ルキレン テレフタル酸)などの他のプラ スチックが要件を満たすことのできない用途にも、使用することができます。ウルトラゾーン樹脂は特に多様性に富んでいるため、熱硬化性材料、金属、セラミ ックに代えて使用することができます。

 

Ultrason® is the tradename for BASF’s product range of polyethersulfone (Ultrason® E), polysulfone (Ultrason® S), and polyphenylsulfone (Ultrason® P). Latest innovations include the optimized Ultrason® Dimension, a highly filled polyethersulfone known for its extraordinary dimensional stability and excellent flow properties.

“This capacity expansion will strengthen our competitive position and drive the global versatility of our polyarylsulfone business,” said Giorgio Greening, head of BASF’s global business unit Styrenic Foams and Specialty Polymers. “The expanded production enables us to accompany our customers’ growth at a high technical level and with the optimum product portfolio.”

BASF produces Ultrason® in Ludwigshafen, Germany and in Yeosu, Korea. Both locations are designed to produce the entire product range of Ultrason® S, E and P, and provide BASF with the flexibility to optimize supply capabilities to customers around the world. “With the new line we will continue to reliably serve customers and industry partners with high-quality material. Especially customers in Asia will benefit from fast response and proximity,” said Olivier Ubrich, head of global business management Specialty Polymers. “With increasing urbanization and the growing need for clean water management, Ultrason® is the ideal material for filter membranes thus contributing to the desalination and purification in water treatment.”

Ultrason® is widely used in the electronics, automotive and aerospace industries for the production of heat-resistant, lightweight components. The thermoplastic can withstand temperatures up to 220°C without altering its properties, and possesses outstanding chemical stability. For example, it enables the compact design of the new headlight reflector in the Hyundai ix35, owing to its superior temperature resistance. The high-performance material is employed in membranes for water filtration and medical devices, in hot water and food contact parts e.g. for espresso machines or microwave-proof dishes as well as in premium household appliances. It complies with the American FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and the European regulations for food contact applications. Ultrason® is also used in the production of carbon fiber composite materials.


 

June 28, 2018

BASF's Wintershall defends Russia gas partnership

 
BASF oil and gas subsidiary Wintershall defended its partnership with Russia in the Nord Stream 2 pipeline to bring Russian gas to Europe, saying this was a more stable option than liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Board member Thilo Wieland, attending the World Gas Conference in Washington, D.C., said Europe’s geography and dwindling domestic gas resources meant that pipeline links were superior, both economically and ecologically, to LNG that the United States is seeking to export.

“Once completed, Nord Stream 2 will play a key role in Europe’s energy supply, in contrast to LNG, which is lured away by money at a moment’s notice, but which does not guarantee volumes long-term and reliably for Europe,” he said as part of the company’s statements during the conference.

Wintershall is a member of the Nord Stream 2 consortium, which includes Gazprom, that started starting preparatory work in the Greifswald bay off Germany’s Baltic coast on a new twin pipeline last month.

Wieland said direct links to Russia and Norway worked as an energy insurance policy while EU countries warning of Russia’s dominant role were ignoring the rising role of LNG terminals and interconnectors.

“Any talk of Russia having a monopoly is inaccurate,” he said.

Joint exploration by Wintershall with Gazprom in Siberia includes developing the Achimgaz project in a region holding 274 billion cubic metres of gas.

At the Siberian Yuzhno-Russkoye field, Wintershall has been producing 25 bcm per year, a third of Germany’s annual consumption - since 2009.

Wieland also said U.S. policies of punitive tariffs and sanctions were harming cooperation and erecting walls against free trade.

 


Jul 9, 2018 

BASF investigates establishment of second Verbund site in China

  • Memorandum of Understanding signed in the presence of Angela Merkel and Li Keqiang
  • Third-largest BASF site globally would be built in South Chinese province of Guangdong

BASF is investigating the possibility of building a highly-integrated “Verbund” chemical production site in the South Chinese province of Guangdong. Today, Martin Brudermüller, BASF’s Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, and Lin Shaochun, Executive Vice Governor of Guangdong Province, signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding in Berlin, in the presence of Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel and the Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

The Verbund site in Guangdong would be BASF’s largest investment and would be operated under the sole responsibility of BASF. China – with a world market share of around 40% – is the largest chemical market, and dominates the growth of the global chemical production. The investment is estimated to reach up to US$10 billion by completion of the project around 2030. The first plants could be completed by 2026 at the latest.

In the initial phase, the BASF project would include petrochemical plants – the heart of the well-established Verbund system. A steam cracker with a planned capacity of 1 million metric tons of ethylene per year would be the starting point of the value chains at the new integrated site. In the next phases, plants for more consumer-oriented products and solutions would be built, to serve sectors like transportation or consumer goods. The site would ultimately be the third-largest BASF site worldwide, following Ludwigshafen, Germany, and Antwerp, Belgium.

Guangdong province is home to customers from these key industries, as well as other fast-growing industries. With more than 110 million residents, Guangdong is the most populous province in China. Its gross domestic product, currently growing at 7% annually, already exceeds that of Spain and will soon have reached that of South Korea.  

At the new site, BASF intends to implement a comprehensive smart manufacturing concept based on cutting-edge technologies. In the future, customers based in South China would be supplied from this high-tech Verbund site.

Globally, BASF currently operates six Verbund sites: two in Europe (Ludwigshafen, Germany; Antwerp, Belgium), two in North America (Freeport, Texas, USA; Geismar, Louisiana, USA) and two in Asia. The Verbund site in Nanjing, China, established in 2000, is a 50:50 joint venture with Sinopec (BASF-YPC Company Limited ), while the Verbund site in Kuantan, Malaysia, established in 1997, is a 60:40 joint venture with Petronas (BASF-Petronas Chemicals ).

 


27 September 2018

BASF, LetterOne sign deal to merge Wintershall, DEA  
 

BASF and LetterOne have signed an agreement to merge their oil-and-gas businesses to create a joint venture called Wintershall DEA, BASF and LetterOne said on Thursday.

LetterOne Groupはロシアの新興財閥で、TNK-BPの株主であったAlfa-Access-Renova の一員のAlfa Groupが、グローバルに石油・ガス事業を展開するために2013年に設立した企業で、当面100億ドル以上を投資するとしており、多数のエネルギー企業の経営者を顧問として雇っている。

ドイツの大手エネルギー会社RWE AG は3月17日、石油・ガス事業子会社のRWE Dea AG を51億ユーロ(約6億ユーロの負債込み)でLetterOne Groupに売却する契約を締結したと発表した。

脱原発政策が進むドイツでは電力大手が危機的状況に陥っている。再生可能エネルギーの普及で電力市価が下落し、火力発電所の収益が悪化しているためで、RWEは2013年決算で1949年以来の赤字に転落し、307億ユーロの負債に苦しんでおり、2013年に石油・ガス事業の売却を決定した。

2014/3/24 ドイツ大手エネルギー会社RWE、石油・ガス事業をロシアの富豪に売却

BASFは子会社Wintershall を通して石油・天然ガス事業を展開している。欧州、リビア、ロシア、ブラジル、アルゼンチン、UAEで採掘を実施。欧州でのガス輸送事業も露ガス大手ガスプロムと共同展開している。

LetterOneはロシアの資産家ミハイル・フリードマン氏が運営する投資会社。独エネルギー大手RWEの石油・天然ガス採掘子会社DEAを2015年に51億ユーロで買収し、同分野へと参入した。
DEAはドイツ、ノルウェー、デンマーク、エジプト、アルジェリア、メキシコで採掘事業を展開している。

 

The deal should close in the first half of 2019, pending approval of merger control, regulators and the German Federal Network Agency, BASF said.

Wintershall is the exploration-and-production business of BASF.
DEA Group is owned by LetterOne, an investment vehicle of Russian magnate Mikhail Fridman.

The table below shows the 2017 financial performance of the combined Wintershall and DEA.

Sales €4.7bn
EBITDA €2.8bn
Net income €740m
Hydrocarbon output 210m bbl
Output/day 575,000 bbl

The joint venture plans to reach daily production of 750,000-800,000 bbl/day of oil equivalents by 2021-2023, BASF said. It plans to achieve synergies of at least €200m/year three years after the deal closes.

Wintershall CEO Mario Mehren will become the chairman of the management board and the CEO of the joint venture, BASF said. Maria Moraeus Hanssen, CEO of DEA, will become the deputy CEO and chief operating officer.

A chief financial officer still needs to be chosen, BASF said.

BASF will initially hold a 67% stake in the joint venture, with LetterOne holding the rest, BASF said.

The chemical company will also receive additional preference shares to take into account the value of Wintershall's gas-transportation business, BASF said. These will be converted into ordinary shares no later than 36 months after the deal closes, if not before the initial public offering (IPO) of the joint venture. At that point, BASF's stake in Wintershall DEA will rise to 72.7%.

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2019/5/2    

BASFと露LetterOne、石油ガス事業の統合完了
 

独化学大手BASFとロシアの投資会社LetterOne グループは1日、両社の石油・ガス子会社の統合が完了したと発表した。
BASF傘下のWintershall と LetterOne傘下の独DEAの合併により誕生した新合弁会社Wintershall Deaは、2020年後半に新規株式公開(IPO)を実施する予定だ。

両社は昨年9月、それぞれの石油・ガス子会社を統合することで正式に合意した。新会社への出資比率は、BASFが67%、LetterOneが33%。これにはWintershallのガス輸送事業が含まれておらず、同事業の価値に相当する新会社の優先株を発行し、BASFに割り当てる。取引成立から36カ月以内にこれを普通株に転換することで、BASFの出資比率を72.7%に引き上げる取り決めだ。統合は約1年以内に完了する予定。なお、新会社はドイツ北部のハンブルクと中部ヘッセン州Kasselに本社を置く。

IPOを巡ってはロイター通信が先に、Wintershall Deaがアドバイザー行を選定したと報じた。時価総額は150億〜200億ユーロに達する可能性があり、関係者によると、2020年の上場案件で欧州最大規模になる見通しという。

両社はまた、Wintershall Deaの生産量を現在の日量59万石油換算バレルから、2021〜2023年に日量75万〜80万バレルに引き上げる方針を改めて示した。統合によるシナジー効果は年間2億ユーロ以上になるとみている。

 

In 2018, pro-forma hydrocarbon production of Wintershall and DEA together was 215 million barrels of oil equivalent (BOE), equivalent to around 590,000 BOE per day.

At the end of 2018, proven reserves on a pro-forma basis stood at 2.4 billion BOE, which leads to a reserve to production ratio of 11 years.

As a result of the merger, Wintershall Dea has a regionally balanced footprint with superior growth opportunities in its core regions. Based on existing exploration and production projects, the company is on track to reach daily production of 750,000 to 800,000 BOE between 2021 and 2023. This is equivalent to an annual production growth rate of 6% to 8%. Growth is expected to come from both the existing portfolio and new production regions.
 

Wintershall Dea expects to realise synergies of at least €200 million per year as of the third year following the closing of the transaction, in particular from operating and capital expenditure savings.

According to current plans, around 1,000 of the total 4,200 full-time positions are expected to be reduced worldwide. The social partners are currently working on socially compatible solutions regarding the necessary personnel adjustments.

Wintershall Dea produces gas and oil in four core regions: Europe, Russia, Latin America (Mexico、Brazil、Arzentina) and the MENA region (Middle East & North Africa:UAE、Algeria、Libya、Egipt). “As an energy company, we know that we are merely stewards of the country’s natural resources. We recognise our responsibility, and work with all stakeholders to ensure that our presence improves people’s lives. In the countries where we are active, we are well positioned and often even a leader,” says Maria Moraeus Hanssen, Deputy CEO and Chief Operating Officer of Wintershall Dea. This applies, for example, to domestic production in Germany, but also to the Norwegian continental shelf and production in Russia. “Our portfolio is well balanced both regionally and operationally and 70 percent of our production is gas. And that is a good thing for Europe with a growing demand for natural gas. Europe does not need less, but more gas, in order to achieve its own climate goals,” says Moraeus Hanssen.

 


Oct 22, 2018

BASF and Nornickel join forces to supply the battery materials market
  • BASF announces first location for battery materials production in Europe
  • BASF and Nornickel establish a strategic cooperation to meet the growing needs for battery materials in electric vehicles


BASF has selected Harjavalta, Finland, as the first location for battery materials production serving the European automotive market. The plant will be constructed adjacent to the nickel and cobalt refinery owned by Norilsk Nickel (Nornickel).

This investment is part of BASF’s €400 million multi-step investment plan announced last year and builds upon initial battery materials production started in Harjavalta in 2018.  Start-up is planned for late 2020, enabling the supply of approximately 300,000 full electric vehicles per year with BASF battery materials. The new plant in Harjavalta will utilize locally generated renewable energy sources, including hydro, wind and biomass.

Additionally, BASF and Nornickel have signed a long-term, market-based supply agreement for nickel and cobalt feedstocks from Nornickel’s metal refinery. The agreement will establish a locally sourced and secure supply of raw materials for battery production in Europe.

The investment in the new plant in Finland reinforces BASF’s support of the EU Commission’s agenda towards a European battery production value chain. BASF is also evaluating additional locations in Europe for the construction of new production plants for battery materials.

“With the investment in Harjavalta, BASF will be present in all major regions with local production and increased customer proximity further supporting the rapidly growing electric vehicle market,” said Kenneth Lane, President, BASF’s Catalysts division. “Combined with our Nornickel cooperation, we are creating a strong platform that connects the efforts between industry leaders in raw material supply and battery materials technology and production.”

“The co-location of BASF’s new plant and Nornickel’s metal refinery in Harjavalta will enable unparalleled access to a local nickel and cobalt supply,” said Jeffrey Lou, Senior Vice President, Battery Materials at BASF. “Our high-nickel cathode materials are key to deliver enhanced energy density and vehicle range to our customers. With this world-scale production facility, BASF will be able to serve the European e-mobility growth strategies of key OEMs and cell suppliers with reliable supply and close collaboration.”

Sergey Batekhin, Senior Vice President, Sales, Procurement and Innovation at Nornickel, confirmed, “We are pleased to extend our alliance with BASF, one of our long-term strategic partners. The agreement is an important element of Nornickel’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the global battery materials market and establish long-term cooperation with leading producers of cathode active materials.”

Batekhin said, “We believe that electric vehicles have significant potential to transform the global nickel industry, and Nornickel – as the world’s leading supplier of refined nickel products – is uniquely positioned to support this transformation. We feel especially proud that our company can play an important role in supporting the development of the green economy in Europe and globally. Nornickel reiterates its strong commitment to the sustainable long-term development of its resource base and being a responsible participant in the global materials supply chain.

 


2018/11/02  BASF 

BASFとSINOPEC、中国での協業拡大に向けた覚書に署名

  • 南京に年産能力100万トンのスチームクラッカーを新設し、下流ポートフォリオのさらなる  開発を促進
  • 合弁企業BASF-YPCの生産能力を拡大
  • 電池材料分野での新たなビジネスチャンスを共同で探求

BASFとSINOPECは、中国における上流および下流の化学品生産におけるパートナーシップをさらに強化するため、北京で覚書(MoU)に署名しました。両社は新たにスチームクラッカーを建設し、両社の出資比率が対等の合弁企業であるBASF-YPC Company(BASF-YPC)の拡大を目指します。共同での実施可能性調査は2018年末までに完了する見込みです。 また、両社は急速に成長している中国の電池材料市場において新たなビジネスチャンスを共同で探求していきます。

MoUによると、エチレン年産能力100万トンをもつ第ニのスチームクラッカーの建設にあたり、BASF-YPCは50%を、SINOPEC Yangtzi Petrochemical(Sinopec 100%) は残りの50%を出資します。 BASF-YPCとYPCの両社は、下流の製品ポートフォリオ開発に向けて、新しいスチームクラッカーのすべての製品を利用することができます。

* BASF-YPCは南京にエチレン74万トン(当初60万トン)

さらに、このスチームクラッカーから提供される基礎化学品により、BASFとSINOPECは合弁事業であるBASF‐YPCの南京フェアブントサイト(統合生産拠点)の生産能力を拡大することができます。フェアブントサイトでは工場が相互に連結されており、製品、副産物、エネルギーの効率的な利用により、コスト削減および環境負荷の最小化を図っています。

「スチームクラッカーへの新たな投資と南京における合弁会社BASF-YPCの拡大は、SINOPECとBASFの強力なパートナーシップと中国のお客様へのコミットメントを表すものです」と、BASF取締役会会長のDr.マーティン・ブルーダーミュラーは述べています。

SINOPEC の会長であり、BASF-YPC の会長でもあるワン・ジンギ氏は次のように述べています。「SINOPECとBASFの協力関係の強化により、私たちは消費者の生活の質を向上させる高品質の化学品を提供していきます。BASFとのパートナーシップを拡大し、さらなる価値を創造することを目指します。」

両社はまた、電池材料分野での新たなビジネスチャンスを共同で探求しています。中国では、特に自動車産業における代替エネルギーの重要性の高まりにより、様々な用途に向けた革新的な電池材料に対する需要が急増しています。

BASF-YPCは2000年に設立され、現在までの総投資額は約52億ドルにのぼります。 石油化学製品の統合プラントでは、中国市場向けに年間約300万トンの高品質の化学製品とポリマー製品を生産しています。これらの製品は、農業、建設、電子機器、医薬、衛生、自動車、化学品製造など、様々な業界で急増する需要に対応しています。 BASF-YPCは2017年に約210億人民元の売上を記録し、2017年末時点で1,882人の従業員を擁しています。

 

 

 


14 Dec 2018 

EC approves merger of BASF and Solenis businesses

The completion of the merger between BASF's and Solenis' paper and water chemicals business moves closer. The European Commission has approved the deal.

The European Commission has approved the establishment of a joint venture between chemical firms BASF and Solenis. The two companies plan to combine their global paper and water chemicals business.

BASF will retain 49% of the joint venture headquartered in Wilmington/ Delaware, USA, which will operate on the market under the name of Solenis. 51% of the joint venture's shares will be held by private equity funds managed by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (owner of Solenis).

The transaction covers BASF's global Wet End paper and water chemicals business which generated sales of roughly €800m in 2017. The business operates six production sites in the UK, the US, Mexico, India and Australia

Solenis was formerly Ashland Water Technologies, which has a team of 3,700 professionals, active in 118 countries across five continents.

The name change coincides with the acquisition of Ashland Water Technologies by a fund managed by private investment firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R).
Prior to the acquisition, Ashland Water Technologies was a commercial business unit of Ashland Inc. The sale closed July 31, 2014 and included the Industrial Water and the Pulp and Paper business units.

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May 3, 2018

BASF and Solenis to join forces by combining paper and water chemicals businesses

  • Creation of customer-focused global solutions provider for the paper and water treatment industries
  • BASF’s paper wet-end and water chemicals business and Solenis with combined pro-forma sales of around €2.4 billion
  • BASF to hold a 49% share of the combined entity

On May 2, 2018, BASF and Solenis have signed an agreement to join forces by combining BASF’s paper wet-end and water chemicals business with Solenis. The combined entity with pro-forma sales of around €2.4 billion and around 5,000 employees in 2017 aims to deliver additional value for paper and water treatment customers. The goal is to create a customer-focused global solutions provider for the industry. For the paper industry, the product portfolio of the combined enterprise will cover the entire range of functional and process wet-end chemicals, solutions for the water cycle for paper mills, as well as comprehensive service capabilities. For the water treatment industry, the customers of the joint organization will benefit from Solenis’ high-quality service capabilities and BASF’s broad water treatment chemicals platform. Pending approval by the relevant authorities, closing is anticipated for the end of 2018 at the earliest. Financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed.

BASF will hold a 49% share of the combined entity that will operate under the Solenis name and be headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, USA.
BASF will nominate three out of seven shareholder representatives of the joint entity that will continue to be led by current President and Chief Executive Officer John E. Panichella of Solenis.
51% of the shares will be held by funds managed by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice.

“The transaction underlines BASF’s active portfolio management and enables us to share in the future success of this promising joint entity,” says Dr. Markus Kamieth, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and responsible for the Performance Products segment.

The transaction comprises BASF’s global paper wet-end and water chemicals business with 2017 sales of around €800 million and around 1,300 employees globally. The transfer includes production sites and plants of the paper wet-end and water chemicals business in Bradford and Grimsby, UK; Suffolk, Virginia, USA; Altamira, Mexico; Ankleshwar, India, and Kwinana, Australia.
BASF’s paper and water chemicals production plants strongly embedded in the Verbund in Ludwigshafen, Germany, and Nanjing, China, are not transferred, and will deliver products and raw materials to the combined entity under mid- to long-term supply agreements.

BASF’s paper coating chemicals portfolio is not part of the transaction.  

Strategic fit for future growth
“We will remain committed to the paper and water treatment industries through our 49% ownership of the combined entity and bring our excellent technologies, products, and production processes. Combined with Solenis’ service capabilities, we will create additional value for our customers. They will benefit from our joint innovation activities, complementary state-of-the-art product portfolios, and dedicated service and application support,” says Anup Kothari, President of BASF’s Performance Chemicals division.

“Together, we have a unique opportunity to create a customer-focused global specialty chemical company with an enhanced focus and expanded offerings. I am pleased that our cultures are closely aligned and that our companies share a strong common desire to create value for our customers. Together, as one team of experts, we will continue to strive towards excellence in innovation, sustainability and safety,” underlines John E. Panichella, CEO of Solenis.

Customers to benefit from complementary range of products and services
Solenis is a global producer of specialty chemicals for water intensive industries, including the pulp, paper, oil and gas, chemical processing, mining, biorefining, power and municipal markets. The company’s product portfolio includes a broad array of process, functional and water treatment chemistries as well as state-of-the-art monitoring and control systems. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, USA, the company has 35 manufacturing facilities strategically located around the globe with approximately 3,700 employees in 118 countries.

BASF offers a comprehensive range of chemicals for the paper and water industry. Its paper chemicals portfolio comprises dry strength agents, fixing agents, retention and drainage aids, flocculants and coagulants for water management. Furthermore, BASF offers basic dyes, direct dyes, sizing agents, pigment preparations, wet strength agents and color developers for thermal paper. The water chemicals portfolio includes products used in the key processes of industrial and municipal water treatment. BASF’s paper and water chemicals business supplies chemicals to purify the raw water used to produce drinking water, to treat waste water streams and industrial process water, to protect cooling towers, boilers and desalination plants. The paper and water chemicals business is part of BASF’s Performance Chemicals division reported in the Performance Products segment.

BASF and Solenis will continue to operate as strictly independent companies until the completion of the transaction.

------------------

1 February 2019 

BASF and Solenis to close merger after receiving approval

BASF and Solenis have closed a merger of BASF’s Paper and Water Chemicals business with Solenis after receiving approval from all relevant authorities.

With pro forma sales of around $3bn, the merged entity will operate under the Solenis brand. The merger was originally announced in May 2018.

The combined company will provide expanded chemical offerings for customers in the pulp, paper, oil and gas, chemical processing, mining, biorefining and power industries.

BASF will have a 49% stake in the merged entity, while 51% will be owned by Solenis management and funds managed by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R:owner of Solenis)).

With around 5,200 employees, the new Solenis company is expected to have increased sales, service and production capabilities worldwide.
“Combining our strong heritages creates the leading customer-focused, global solutions provider for the paper and water industries.”

The merger includes the Paper and Water assets of BASF’s Performance Chemicals unit, including production facilities in Bradford and Grimsby, UK; Suffolk, US; Altamira, Mexico; Ankleshwar, India; and Kwinana, Australia, as well as other related assets such as intellectual property. BASF’s paper coating chemical business is not part of the deal.

Solenis president and CEO John Panichella said: “Combining our strong heritages creates the leading customer-focused, global solutions provider for the paper and water industries. Customers from these industries will benefit from our joint strengths, resulting in an unparalleled and complementary range of products and services, state-of-the-art innovations and know-how.”

BASF Performance Chemicals division president Anup Kothari said: “Joining forces with Solenis is the right step for BASF’s Paper and Water Chemicals business to maintain sustainable growth. Together, we will provide the broadest scope of products and services to meet the speciality chemical needs of the global paper and water industry.”

BASF’s portfolio features chemicals, performance products, functional materials and agricultural solutions. It has more than 115,000 employees.


April 2, 2019          

Desert Lion in lithium deal with BASF, stock up 62%

Desert Lion Energy Inc., a Namibian lithium development company, said Tuesday April 2 that it has entered into a non-binding offtake agreement with German chemical company BASF SE.
Under the agreement, BASF would be able to purchase lithium hydroxide from a planned Desert Lion production facility to be located in Namibia.

On its website, Desert Lion is described as an emerging lithium development company and early-stage producer, focused on building Namibia’s first large-scale lithium mine on a site located 210 km from Windhoek, the Namibian capital.

The company holds 80% of the Desert Lion Lithium Project, which includes three past-producing lithium mines. The project is situated on a 301 km2 land package and is currently in Phase 1 production, processing stockpiled material and exporting lithium concentrate. The project site is accessible year-round via road and has access to power, water, railway, and port infrastructure.

Back in November 2018, the company released a preliminary economic assessment, which said the initial direct capital cost for a concentrator and lithium carbonate conversion plant would be US$275 million. The estimate includes the cost of by-product circuits and a US$43 million contingency.

The PEA envisaged production of 20,000 tonnes per-year of battery grade lithium carbonate from an average of 2.35 million tonnes per year of run-of-mine mineralization, using conventional processing equipment, producing life-of-mine revenue of US$852 million.

The capital cost for the Desert Lion Lithium Project is amongst the lowest among a group of lithium development peers, Desert Lion said.

In the press release Tuesday, Desert Lion said the agreement with BASF is valid through to December 31, 2019, giving both parties enough time to work towards a definitive offtake agreement.

“This offtake agreement represents another major milestone for the company. We are pleased to be able to align ourselves with BASF for the supply of lithium chemicals to the battery industry,” said Desert Lion CEO Tim Johnston.

Desert Lion acquired the Namibian Lithium Project in January 2017.  It signed an off-take agreement for Phase 1 production with Chinese Lepidolite converter Jiangxi Jinhui Lithium Co. Ltd. in November 2017.

In a December 2017 press release, Desert Lion said it had begun production of lithium concentrate in line with management’s Phase 1 production plan. It said the concentrate was produced from stockpiled material. At that time, the company said the project license contains 700,000 tonnes of stockpiled material and 100,000 tonnes of fines that it planned the process over the next 12 months.

Following the production of lithium concentrate from the stockpiled material, Desert Lion said it would commence production of lithium concentrate from in situ ore, likely in the second half of 2019.

Desert Lion is the product of a reverse takeover deal with Camex Energy Corp. that was announced in October, 2017.

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October 16, 2017

Camex Energy and Desert Lion Energy Enter Into Amalgamation Agreement to Complete Reverse Take-Over

Camex Energy Corp.  and Desert Lion Energy Corp.  are pleased to announce that they have entered into a definitive amalgamation agreement dated October 12, 2017  pursuant to which Camex will acquire of all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Desert Lion in exchange for securities of Camex. The Transaction will be carried out by way of a three-cornered amalgamation. As a result of the Transaction, Camex will continue on with the business of Desert Lion under the name “Desert Lion Energy Inc.”

Desert Lion Energy Corp.
Desert Lion is a private company incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario)  whose only significant asset is ownership of its 80% owned Namibian subsidiary, Desert Lion Energy (Pty) Ltd., which holds a 100% interest in the Desert Lion Energy Lithium Project consisting of a past producing lithium mine as well as the surrounding 301km2prospecting area located in Namibia near Karibib in the Erongo region (the “
Project”). Desert Lion has no revenues.

Desert Lion is focused on providing a long term sustainable solution for the low-cost supply of high quality lithium chemicals. The brownfield lithium mines of Rubicon, Helikon and Mircolite were first discovered in the 1930s and have a long history of lithium mining operations. The Project is located within 301 km2 of highly prospective land with known lithium bearing pegmatitic mineralization. The Project site is accessible year-round by road with access to power, water, rail, port, airport, and communication infrastructure.

 



 
June 27, 2019 

BASF to reshape organization

  • Brudermüller: “Customers should experience a new BASF”
  • Leaner structures, simplified processes
  • Reduction of 6,000 positions worldwide until the end of 2021

With an organizational realignment, BASF is creating the conditions for greater customer proximity, increased competitiveness and more profitable growth. BASF is streamlining its administration, sharpening the roles of services and regions and simplifying procedures and processes. As a result, the company expects savings of €300 million, as part of the ongoing excellence program, which is anticipated to contribute €2 billion to earnings annually from the end of 2021 onwards.

In the course of the strategy implementation, BASF expects a reduction of a total of around 6,000 positions worldwide until the end of 2021. This decrease results from the organizational simplification and from efficiency gains in administration and services as well as in the operating divisions. In addition, central structures are being streamlined in the context of the announced portfolio changes. BASF will continue to need additional employees in fields like production or digitalization, depending on future growth rates.

自動車向けなどを中心に化学品の需要が減速していることに対応する。

削減する6千人のうち約半分はドイツ国内。独西部ルードビヒスハーフェンにある本社の管理部門を中心に組織を簡略化する。21年以降に年間20億ユーロのコスト削減を目指しており、その一環だ。

“We will set up the new organization with a clear focus on leveraging synergies, reducing interfaces and enabling flexibility and creativity,” said Dr. Martin Brudermüller, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF. “We want our customers to experience a new BASF. To achieve this, we have to live a new BASF. We will therefore continue to develop our organization to work more effectively and efficiently. In this way, we will ensure the success of our customers, strengthen our competitiveness, and grow profitably as a company.”

A clear separation of steering and governance from services

Customer-focused operating divisions, service units and regions as well as a lean Corporate Center are the cornerstones of BASF’s new organization. The Corporate Center will consist of less than 1,000 employees and will support BASF’s Board of Executive Directors in steering the company as a whole. This includes central responsibilities, among others in the areas of strategy, finance, legal, human resources and communications.

In addition, around 29,000 employees will be working in cross-functional service units. “Global Engineering Services” and “Global Digital Services” will in future offer their services either for individual sites or globally for business units of the BASF Group, “Global Procurement” will make purchasing even more effective. “Global Business Services” will be newly established and will form a worldwide network of about 8,000 employees providing end-to-end services. They will support the business units with services, among others from the areas of finance, human resources, communications and supply chain. The unit “Global Business Services” will be led by Marc Ehrhardt, currently head of the Finance division.

The role of regions and countries is being sharpened. They represent BASF locally and support the growth of business units with local proximity to customers.

First changes will take effect on January 1, 2020.

Ludwigshafen: Early negotiations for new site agreement

In view of the current changes and further changes planned until the end of 2021, management and employee representatives have jointly decided to move forward the start of negotiations on a new site agreement for the BASF SE. The current site agreement is valid until the end of December 2020. The goal is to sign a new agreement in the first half of 2020.

 


 

July 29, 2019 

BASF invests in second tert-Butylamine plant in Nanjing, China

  • Commitment to customer growth in rubber and tire industry in China
  • Advanced technology with sustainable production process
  • Start-up planned in 2022

BASF plans to invest in a second production plant for tert-Butylamine (tBA) at BASF Specialty Chemicals Co. Ltd (BSNJ) in Nanjing, China. With this expansion, BASF’s global annual production capacity of tBA will increase by more than 30%. The plant is planned to start up in 2022 and will adopt advanced BASF technology which generates a minimal amount of by-products in an advanced production process. BASF also operates tBA production plants in Antwerp, Belgium, and Geismar, Louisiana, USA.

“China is the largest chemical market and the growth driver for global chemical production. It is also the global hub of the tire manufacturing industry. We are excited to be part of this dynamic market and fulfill our customers’ needs through the investment in a new tBA plant in Nanjing, China,” said Dr. Stephan Kothrade, President Functions Asia Pacific, President and Chairman, Greater China, BASF.

“As Asia remains the key growth region for tBA, the new plant underlines our strong commitment supporting the growth of our customers in the rubber and tire industry as well as the agricultural and pharmaceutical markets,” said Vasilios Galanos, Senior Vice President, Intermediates Asia Pacific, BASF. “We further strengthen our production capabilities in delivering consistent and reliable supply to our customers in this fast-growing region, solidifying our position as a leading supplier to the global rubber and tire industry.”

tBA is a primary aliphatic amine that is used as an intermediate to produce vulcanization accelerators for the rubber and tire industry. It is also applied as a building block in the agricultural and pharmaceutical industries.
 

 



August 14, 2019 

BASF, Solvay and Domo Chemicals reach agreement on acquisition of Solvay’s polyamide business

To further expand its position as a global supplier of engineering plastics, BASF signed an agreement with Solvay in September 2017 on the acquisition of Solvay’s integrated polyamide business. In January 2019, the EU Commission approved the acquisition subject to certain conditions, including the divestiture of Solvay’s polyamide 6.6 production facilities in Europe.

BASFは2017年9月、Solvayのポリアミド関連事業を買収することでSolvayと合意したと発表したが、欧州委員会は2018年6月27日、競争制限の恐れが強いとして本格調査を開始することを決定した。

欧州委員会の懸念を受け、BASFは2018年10月にSolvayの欧州のポリアミド事業のうちの一部を買収しない案を欧州委員会に提案した。Solvayはその部分を他社に売却する。

BASFでは、投資銀行のLazardを使い、売却先を探している。候補としては、韓国のSK Innovation、中国の KingFa (金發科技)、米国のSK Capital(ナイロンメーカーAscendの親会社)などで、1月末までに入札を済ませたいとしている。

欧州委員会は1月18日、両社が提出した下記の条件を守ることを条件に、これを承認した。

  • Solvayの下記の設備を適切な1社に売却する。

Belle-Etoile and Valence (France), Gorzow (Poland), and Blanes (Spain)
これらは、ヘキサメチレンジアミン、
アジピン酸塩ヘキサメチレンジアミン、ナイロン66ベースポリマー、ナイロン66エンプラ、ナイロン6 3D プリンティングパウダーを生産する。

  • 上記の売却先との間でフランスのChalampéにアジピン酸生産のためのJVを設立
  • 売却先が必要とすればアジピン酸の長期供給契約を締結

2019/1/17 BASF、Solvayのポリアミド事業買収に注力

Today, BASF, Solvay and Domo Chemicals agreed that Domo will acquire the European PA6.6 business from Solvay. This transaction is targeted to close by the end of 2019 and remains subject to the approval of the relevant competition authorities.

BASF will acquire the global, non-European PA6.6 business from Solvay including its 50% share in Butachimie’s adipodinitrile (ADN) production according to the agreement signed in September 2017. Subject to the approval of the transaction between Domo and Solvay and final approval of the relevant competition authorities, the transaction between BASF and Solvay is also targeted to close by the end of 2019.

Butachimie は元はDuPont (繊維部門 Invista)と Rhone-Poulenc のJVとして設立された。

2004年にKoch Industries がInvistaを買収した。

Rhone-Poulenc は化学品部門をRhodia として分離し、2011年にSolvayがRhodiaを友好的買収した。

この結果、ButachimieはSolvayとInvista のJVとなった。

The intended acquisition by BASF now comprises a total of eight production sites in Germany, France, China, India, South Korea, Brazil and Mexico.

In France, BASF and Domo will also enter into a joint venture to produce adipic acid.

Furthermore, three research and development centers in South Korea, China and Brazil and six technical consultation centers in Asia as well as in North and South America will be transferred from Solvay to BASF.

The purchase price to be paid by BASF on a cash and debt-free basis would amount to €1.3 billion.

BASFは2017年9月、Solvayのポリアミド関連事業を買収することでSolvayと合意したと発表した。キャッシュフリー・デットフリーベースの購入価格は16億ユーロ。

Solvay’s businesses to be acquired by BASF generated sales of around €1.0 billion in 2018. At closing, approximately 700 Solvay employees will move to BASF. The intended joint venture between BASF and Domo in France will employ approximately 650 employees. BASF is planning to integrate the businesses into its Monomers and Performance Materials divisions.

With this transaction, BASF will benefit from improved access to important growth markets in Asia and South America, enabling the company to improve the close collaboration with local customers. BASF’s product pipeline and product portfolio of engineering plastics will be enhanced as well, which will strengthen the position of the company as a provider of innovative solutions for the transport, construction and consumer goods industries, among others. Through the backward integration into important raw materials such as adipodinitrile (ADN), BASF will be present along the entire value chain for polyamide 6.6 and be able to further increase the capacities to produce polymers.

 ---

DOMO Chemicals is a leading integrated high quality material engineering company with a strong focus on sustainable solutions, such as its ecological ECONAMID® engineering plastics range.

The company offers worldwide an extensive portfolio of nylon 6 intermediates, nylon 6 resins, engineering plastics, fertilizers, packaging film and distribution of petrochemical products.

Headquartered in Germany, DOMO’s innovative products and services serve the automotive, food, medical, pharmaceutical, agricultural, chemicals and electronics industries.

Plants
Leuna (DE)
Arco (IT)
Premnitz (DE)
Buford, GA (USA)
Jiaxing City (CHN)
Cesano Maderno (IT)

The Leuna plant has over 70 years of history behind it. Dr. Paul Schlack (1897-1987) first synthesised Nylon 6 from caprolactam in 1938. He later developed the process for manufacturing synthetic fibres from Nylon 6, trademarked as Perlon. In 1942, the world’s largest industrial plant for producing caprolactam opened in Leuna, and its technology and procedural expertise have been developing constantly ever since.

From the acquisition - in 1994 - of the Leuna Caprolactam Site, with its long tradition continuing today, the history of Domo Chemicals has been an entrepreneurial success story illustrating Germany’s rich industrial tradition, as well as its recovery following a few years of stagnation. Since then, the textile history and experience of the DOMO Group (thirty years in carpet and yarn manufacturing) have resulted in the specialisation and development of a portfolio of high-performance Nylon 6 polymers for textile / BCF / industrial yarn applications.

In 2002 we set our first steps in the engineering plastics industry. 2004 marked another highlight in Domo Chemicals’ history with the acquisition of the PA2000 factory in Premnitz (Germany) which meant the real start of our nylon 6 Engineering Plastics business.

The acquisition of Aquafil Engineering Plastics business (Italy / US / China) in 2013 marked the global expansion of our Engineering Plastics business. From that moment on we have been providing specialized engineering plastics solutions for our customers worldwide, active in the automotive, electrical, industrial and consumer goods.

With the acquisition of CFP Flexible Packaging SpA (Italy), a leading European producer of Nylon 6 specialty films for the flexible packaging industry, mid 2014, we are further strengthening our Nylon 6 value chain and growing our portfolio of innovative products and services.

This acquisition in June 2015 perfectly fits into DOMO Chemicals' strategy to grow its innovative capabilities and globally strengthen the business and service level to its customers.

Technical Polymers is an engineering plastics specialist, based in Buford, Georgia, US. It specializes in the development, production and marketing of a wide range high performance engineering polymers and develops customized formulations for specific applications.  Innovation is in its DNA.



20191018日 BASF 

BASFQuantafuel社に出資し、プラスチック廃棄物のケミカルリサイクル共同で推進

出資によりBASFChemCyclingTMプロジェクト重要な節目を迎えサーキュラー・エコノミー循環型経済)にけてさらなる前進
Quantafuelデンマークスキーベの工場ケミカルリサイクルされた熱分解油および精製された炭化水素に対しBASF優先買取権を保有
精製された炭化水素製品の製造プロセスの共同開発を目指す

BASFプラスチック廃棄物の熱分解および熱分解油の精製を専門とするQuantafuel社(本社:ノルウェ)に2,000万ユーロを出資します。この出資は、新株の引受および転換権付貸付を通じて行われます

両社は
協業により、熱分解と精製の統合プロセスからなるQuantafuelのケミカルリサイクル技術をさらに発展させ、化学品製造の原料として使用できるよう生産量を最大化することを目指します。
また
Quantafuel2段階として、共同開発した技術を他社にライセンス供与することも計画しています

Quantafuel2019年第4四半期にデンマークキーベにて年間約16,000トン生産能力もつ熱分解精製工場操業開始を予定しています

BASF投資契約の一環としてQuantafuelスキーベ工場の生産開始から最低4年間、この工で生産される全ての熱分解油および精製された炭化水素優先的に買取ることができる権利を有します。
BASF
買い取った二次原材料ChemCyclingTMプロジェクトに活用し、一部のお客様とともにケミカルリサイクルされたプラスチック市場を開拓していきます。

再生原料はルートヴィッヒスハーフェンにあるBASF統合生拠点において一部化石資源の代替として投入されます。

またBASFデンマークのQuantafuel工場が本格稼働した段階で、プラスチック廃棄物をケミカルリサイクルして製造したCcycledTM製品を、一部のお客様向け商業的な規模で供給することを目指します。
さらに、
両社は供給量を商業規模で拡大するため、ケミカルリサイクの一環として精製され炭化水素の生産設備を共同で建設することも目指しています


October 18, 2019

ADNOC, Adani, BASF and Borealis sign Memorandum of Understanding to further evaluate collaboration for a chemical production complex in Mundra, India
 
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (“ADNOC”), Adani Group (“Adani”), BASF SE (“BASF”) and Borealis AG (“Borealis”) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to engage in a joint feasibility study to further evaluate a collaboration for the establishment of a chemical complex in Mundra, Gujarat, India.

The total investment is estimated to be up to USD 4 billion (about Rs 28,400 crore), it added, but did not state which company will hold how much stake.
 

This is the next step of BASF’s and Adani’s investment plans as announced in January 2019.

In January this year, Adani Group had announced plans to set up a Rs 16,000 crore chemical factory at Mundra in partnership with BASF.

2019/1/19 BASF、インドに石化新工場

With the inclusion of ADNOC and Borealis as potential partners, the parties are examining various structuring options for the chemical complex that will leverage the technical, financial and operational strengths of each company. The total investment is estimated to be up to $4 billion.

The collaboration includes evaluating a joint world-scale propane dehydrogenation (PDH) plant to produce propylene based on propane feedstock to be supplied by ADNOC.
Propylene will be partially used as feedstock for a polypropylene (PP) complex, owned by ADNOC and Borealis, based on proprietary state-of-the-art Borealis Borstar® technology.

The PP complex will be the first overseas production joint investment by ADNOC and Borealis as part of a strategic framework with their current joint venture Borouge.

Borouge is also developing a new polypropylene plant in the emirate as part of the emirate's efforts to triple chemicals production by 2025.

Propylene will be used as the key raw material for the previously announced acrylics value chain complex comprising glacial acrylic acid (GAA), Oxo-C4 (butanols and 2-ethylhexanol), butyl acrylate (BA) and potentially other downstream products, under a joint venture between BASF and Adani.

The chemical complex in Mundra will be entirely supplied from renewable energy resources, with the four companies currently evaluating co-investment in a wind and solar park. If achieved, this would be the world’s first CO2-neutral petrochemical site to be fully powered by renewable energy.
 

The designated site is planned at Mundra port in Gujarat, India, and the products are predominantly for the Indian market, serving a wide range of local industries, including construction, automotive and coatings.

Commenting on the MoU signing, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of State and ADNOC Group CEO, said: “This exciting collaboration is in line with ADNOC’s strategy to foster mutually beneficial partnerships. As a value-adding partner, ADNOC will play a crucial role as the propane feedstock supplier to this project. As the fastest growing global energy market, India is crucial to our international growth ambitions in the downstream sector. As such, this project allows ADNOC and its partners to capture the promising growth in the Indian polyolefins market.”

GautamAdani, Chairman of the Adani Group, stated: “We are very pleased to collaborate with our international partners to establish a Chemical Manufacturing Complex at Mundra Port. We stand committed to the ‘Make in India’ initiative and serve the larger purpose of aligning growth opportunities with creation of goodness for the nation.”

“BASF remains committed to investing in India’s growth. We will play a key role in driving this joint collaboration which is also pioneering in terms of sustainability. We look forward to working together with our partners in establishing a chemical cluster in Mundra and to supplying the Indian market with high-quality downstream products,” said Dr. Martin Brudermueller, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE.

Alfred Stern, CEO of Borealis, added: “This partnership is a unique opportunity to strengthen our PP presence in India with proprietary Borealis Borstar PP technology and to create value and tangible benefits through innovation for customers across multiple industries.”

The partners aim to finalize the joint feasibility study by the end of Q1 2020. Production is intended to commence in 2024.

 

Headquartered in Ahmedabad, Adani Group is one of India's largest integrated infrastructure conglomerates with interests in resources (coal mining and trading), logistics (ports, logistics, shipping and rail), energy (renewable and thermal power generation, transmission and distribution), agro (commodities, edible oil, food products, cold storage and grain silos), real estate, public transport infrastructure, consumer finance and defence sectors.

 

2019/11/5

BASF、バイオテクノロジー分野を強化し天然香料市場へ参入

  • アロマバイオテックの革新的リーダーであるIsobionics社を買収
  • バイオテクノロジー研究を主導するConagen社と提携
  • バイオテクノロジーベースの天然バニリン、バレンセン、ノートカトン市場に参入

BASFは、天然香料・香粧品のグローバル市場(F&F)においてバイオテクノロジーの革新的リーダーであるIsobionics社(本社:オランダ)を買収し、また、バイオテクノロジー研究分野を主導するConagen社(本社:アメリカ)との提携により、天然香料市場に参入します。アロマケミカルズのリーディングサプライヤーとして、バニリン、ノートカトン、バレンセンなど天然原料のポートフォリオを拡充します。BASFが持つ研究開発力と幅広い販売網に、IsobionicsとConagenのノウハウと専門知識を組み合わせることで、バイオ技術に基づいた香料原料のテクノロジーを発展させます。

「消費習慣の変化と天然原料不足の可能性を考慮し、我々のバイオテクノロジーの分野を強化することがBASFの戦略の中心にあります」とBASFのニュートリション & ヘルス事業の責任者メラニー・マス-ブルナーは述べています。

 


November 23, 2019  
 
BASF commences its smart Verbund project in Zhanjiang, China
  • Milestone for BASF’s US$10 billion investment project in China
  • World-class smart Verbund site with latest technologies and highest safety and sustainability standards
  • First plants to produce engineering plastics and TPU serving a range of key industries

Today, BASF officially launched its smart Verbund project in 広東省湛江市Zhanjiang, Guangdong province, China, and commenced building its first plants. It marks a milestone of the company’s US$10 billion investment project announced in July 2018.

The first plants will produce engineering plastics and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to serve the increasing needs of various growth industries in the southern China market and throughout Asia.

“We are pleased to see our mega-investment project in China is progressing,” said Dr. Martin Brudermüller, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, BASF SE. “We are determined to support our customers in southern China drive growth with innovative products and sustainable solutions.”

“By utilizing the latest digital technologies and applying the highest safety standards, the new Verbund site will be a role model for sustainable production contributing to the development of a circular economy in China,” added Brudermüller.

“Zhanjiang is a perfect location for BASF to further strengthen our footprint of local production in China,” said Dr. Stephan Kothrade, President Asia Pacific Functions, President and Chairman Greater China, BASF. “The smart Verbund site will form a solid foundation for a world-class industrial cluster in Zhanjiang and establish stronger business connections between South China and other Asian countries.”

By 2022, the new engineering plastics compounding plant will supply an additional capacity of 60,000 metric tons per year in China, bringing BASF’s total capacity of these products in Asia Pacific to 290,000 metric tons per year. The new capacity will enable BASF to meet the growing demand of its customers, particularly in the automotive, electronics and new energy vehicles (NEV) industries.

BASF plans to implement a comprehensive smart manufacturing concept at the Verbund site based on cutting-edge technologies. The new site will utilize automated packaging, high-tech control systems, and automated guided vehicles.

With the Zhanjiang Verbund site, BASF will also contribute to the advancement of the local community. The company is forming strategic partnerships with several local technical institutions to develop young technical talents.

BASF Integrated Site (Guangdong) Co. Ltd, BASF’s new wholly-owned subsidiary, has also been officially formed. This entity will oversee the operations of the new Verbund site, underlining BASF’s commitment to the China market.

 

BASF signed the first Memorandum of Understanding for the Verbund site with the Guangdong Provincial Government in Berlin, Germany, in July 2018.
In January 2019, the company signed a Framework Agreement setting out further details of the plan.

BASFは広東省に大規模化学コンプレックス( “Verbund”)を建設する可能性を調査しており、2018年7月9日ベルリンで、広東省政府との間で非拘束の覚書を締結した。Merkel 首相と訪独中の李克強首相が調印式に参列した。

第一段階には、年産100万トンのエチレンを含む。第一段階は遅くとも2026年までに完成、全体は2030年頃に完成する。投資額は100億ドルとみている。BASFが単独で事業を行う。

完成すれば、ドイツのLudwigshafen、ベルギーのAntwerp に次ぐ3番目に大きいVerbundとなる。 

BASFは既に、江蘇省南京市のSINOPEC揚子石化に隣接し、BASF 50%/SINOPEC 50%のJVのBASF-YPC Company を持っている。

2005年5月にエチレン年産60万トンでスタートしたが、2005年に74万トンに増設している。

2018/9/19 SABIC、BASFも中国で新規エチレンセンター構想

The Verbund site in Guangdong would be BASF’s largest investment, estimated up to US$10 billion upon completion, and would be operated under the sole responsibility of BASF.

The Verbund project is the first wholly foreign-funded project in China's heavy chemical industry.  (新華社)

The integrated value chain will connect upstream and downstream plants from basic chemicals to more consumer-oriented products and solutions, serving growth sectors like consumer goods and transportation. The site would ultimately be the third-largest BASF site worldwide, following Ludwigshafen, Germany, and Antwerp, Belgium.

The first plant producing engineering plastics compounds is expected to be operational by 2022, and the whole Verbund site is planned to be completed by 2030.




BASF to Sell Construction Chemicals Business for $3.5 Billion

Chemicals giant BASF said it has agreed to sell its construction chemicals unit for EUR3.17 billion ($3.52 billion), as the German company works to boost profitability through ongoing turnaround efforts.

The sale, to private-equity firm Lone Star Funds, is expected to close in the third quarter of 2020 and is subject to regulatory approval, BASF said in a statement Saturday.

Donald Quintin, president of Europe at Lone Star, said the acquisition will complement the fund's existing investments in the construction materials industry.

Over the past year BASF has announced job cuts and slashed profit expectations as it works to contend with slowing demand, particularly in the automotive sector, as well as the effects of the continuing U.S.-China trade war. Its portfolio of products extends from oil and gas to plastics and agriculture.

In July, the company said it would cut 6,000 jobs, or 5% of its global workforce, by 2021 in an effort to generate annual savings of EUR300 million. Those cuts came several months after BASF laid out restructuring efforts in November 2018.

For the most recent quarter ended in September, the construction chemicals business recorded sales growth of 5% over the prior-year period, mainly due to currency effects. BASF said the unit includes 7,000 employees in 60 countries around the world, with annual sales of EUR2.5 billion in 2018.

Dallas-based Lone Star was founded in 1995 and comprises 20 funds with total capital commitments of approximately $85 billion, according to its website.
 


 

December 21, 2019 

Lone Star Funds to acquire BASF’s Construction Chemicals business

Today, BASF and an affiliate of Lone Star, a global private equity firm, signed a purchase agreement for the acquisition of BASF’s Construction Chemicals business. The purchase price on a cash and debt-free basis is €3.17 billion. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2020, subject to the approval of the relevant competition authorities.

“Our aim was to find a new home for our Construction Chemicals business where it can leverage its full potential,” said Saori Dubourg, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and responsible for the Construction Chemicals business. “Under the umbrella of Lone Star, the Construction Chemicals team can focus on a growth path with an industry-specific approach.”

“BASF’s Construction Chemicals business fits very well with our portfolio, complementing our investments in the construction materials industry,” said Donald Quintin, President of Europe at Lone Star. “We highly value the industry-wide recognized knowledge and competence of BASF’s Construction Chemicals experts, backed by a strong track record in innovative products and a compelling R&D pipeline. We look forward to jointly pursuing a growth-oriented business approach.”

With more than 7,000 employees, BASF’s Construction Chemicals business operates production sites and sales offices in more than 60 countries and generated sales of about €2.5 billion in 2018.

The signing of the agreement has immediate effect on the reporting of BASF Group. Retroactively as of January 1, 2019, sales and earnings of the Construction Chemicals division are no longer included in sales, EBITDA and EBIT before special items of BASF Group. The prior-year figures will be restated accordingly (BASF Group sales 2018 restated: €60.2 billion; EBITDA 2018 restated: €8,970 million; EBIT before special items 2018 restated: €6,281 million). Until closing, earnings will be presented in the income after taxes of BASF Group as a separate item (“Income after taxes from discontinued operations”).

 

Admixture systems

BASF technologies for admixture systems provide solutions and add value for customers in the concrete manufacturing, cement and underground construction industries. Each of these industries is connected to the concrete value chain. Our primary focus is to improve and protect buildings by providing solutions based on additives for concrete and other cementitious materials as well as selected complementary technologies. 
 

Construction systems

BASF serves the industry by offering construction systems with solutions to protect and repair buildings and structures. Furthermore, the construction systems help to enhance the performance of buildings and extend their service lives. Construction systems comprise: concrete repair and protection systems, performance grouts, waterproofing systems, sealants, performance flooring systems, wall systems and coatings for mulch and wood fibers. 

With systems for concrete repair and protection, we help to prolong a building’s life span. Performance grouts enable a durable, safe, cost-effective and time-efficient installation of all types of heavy machinery and wind power stations. Our waterproofing systems are designed to stop water entry through surfaces to prevent interior damage, while our sealants prevent air, water and other environmental elements from entering or exiting a structure. Wall systems offer exterior insulation finishing systems that combine insulation, a finished surface, and waterproofing in one integrated system. Through our North American colorbiotics business we provide high-quality, long-lasting landscape coating products to help produce vibrant mulch for homeowners, business owners, parks and municipalities.

 

About Lone Star

Lone Star is a private equity firm that invests globally in real estate, equity, credit and other financial assets. Since the establishment of its first fund in 1995, Lone Star has organized twenty private equity funds with aggregate capital commitments totaling approximately $85 billion. As a leading private equity investor in construction materials and related industries, Lone Star has extensive international experience in the sector with a strong portfolio of investments across both Europe and North America. For more information about Lone Star, go to www.lonestarfunds.com.

 


2020年6月16日

BASFとRed Avenue New Materials、中国における堆肥化可能な生分解性コポリエステル(PBAT)の生産で協力

◼BASF、Red Avenue New Materials GroupにBASFの高品質PBATの製造および販売のライセンスを供与
◼Red Avenue New Materials Group、上海に年間生産能力6万トンのPBAT新工場を建設
◼バイオポリマーの世界市場は年間約15%の成長見込

2020年5月28日、BASFとRed Avenue New Materials Group(彤程新材料集团)は、認証済の生分解性脂肪族−芳香族コポリエステル(PBAT)を、BASFの高い品質基準に準拠した方法で生産および販売するライセンスを、Red Avenue New Materials Groupに供与する共同契約に署名しました。

Red Avenue New Materials Groupは年間生産能力6万トンのPBAT工場を上海に建設し、BASFの生産技術を用いて、BASFがecoflex®(エコフレックス)として販売している原料を生産します。

この新工場は2022年に稼働し、バイオポリマー市場に供給を開始します。

バイオプラスチック(生分解性プラスチックおよびバイオマスプラスチック)の世界市場は、年率15%の成長が見込まれています。多くの国で新たな法律や規制が施行され、堆肥化可能な素材が包装材や農業用マルチフィルム、袋などに使用されることで、積極的な市場展開が続くと予想されています。

BASFの生分解性樹脂であるecoflex®革新的素材ecovio®(エコバイオ)は、この成長市場で既に大きな役割を果たしています。PBATの増産により、当社の市場での立場がさらに強化されます」とBASFのグローバル・ビジネス・ユニット、スペシャルティ・ポリマーズの責任者、オリビエ・ウブリッヒは述べています。「中国市場開拓への取り組みとネットワーク、戦略的に優れた立地、およびBASFとの長期にわたる良好な関係から、Red Avenue New Materials Groupをパートナーとしました。この協力体制により、お客様のニーズをさらに効果的に満たすことができ、供給の柔軟性も向上します。」Red Avenue New Materials Groupは、「Materials Make The Planet Better」(地球をより良くする素材)という開発コンセプトのもと、革新的かつ責任ある方法で、新素材産業の持続可能な発展を促進するという企業ビジョンを掲げています。

Red Avenue New Materials Group社長であるZhou Jianhui(周建辉)は、次のように述べています。「私たちは、社会的責任意識を強く持つ企業として、地球環境問題を解決するだけでなく、川上および川下のグリーン産業チェーンにも最善の支援を約束します。当社はBASFと協力し、革新的な製造技術を持つ最新鋭の新素材を導入できることを光栄に思います。インターネットを中心とした新たな消費者行動などにより先端材料のビジネスチャンスが急速に拡大していることから、中国におけるPBAT市場の開拓と新材料産業の発展に協力してまいります。」

BASFの生分解性樹脂ecoflex®は1998年に上市され、DIN EN 13432およびASTM D 6400に準拠しています。ecoflex®はコンパウンド材料としても活用され、BASFの生分解性コンパウンド樹脂であるecovio®にも配合されています。ecovio®は一部が植物由来の生分解性樹脂であり、有機性廃棄物袋、ラップフィルム、青果用袋、農業用マルチフィルム、食品包装など、幅広い用途での使用が可能です。食品廃棄物の回収だけでなく、農作物の生産性向上、包装、貯蔵におけるecovio®の優位性も報告されています。食品廃棄物が減少し、栄養分が大量の堆肥として土壌に還元され、土壌中のプラスチックの蓄積が回避されることにより、サーキュラーエコノミー(循環型経済)を実現します。



March 10, 2021   

BASF strengthens its position in bio-surfactants for Personal Care, Home Care and Industrial Formulators with two distinct partnerships

BASF establishes a strategic alliance, including an equity stake, with Allied Carbon Solutions Co., Ltd (ACS:アライドカーボンソリューションズ) Japan, a commercial provider of surfactants from biomass
  • BASF enters a strategic technology cooperation with Holiferm Ltd, UK, to develop a state-of-the-art production process for biosurfactant products

BASF has recently signed two distinct partnerships agreements to expand its global leading position in the bio-based surfactants and actives market.

The strategic alliance with ACS includes an equity stake and makes BASF the single largest shareholder. It further entails an exclusive technology cooperation, commercial agreement and product development for sophorolipids, one class of glycolipids, to address the ever-increasing needs of consumers for sustainable, natural and bio-degradable ingredients and actives. The partners have agreed not to disclose financial details regarding the investment.

Through the strategic technology agreement with Holiferm, a UK-based start-up company, BASF establishes an exclusive cooperation to focus on developing and manufacturing sustainable, non-fossil based, fermentation-derived ingredients for other classes of glycolipids with potential for application in Home Care, Industrial Formulators and Personal Care products.

“We see strong business potential in these partnerships,” said Ralph Schweens, President, Care Chemicals, BASF. “While BASF already has solid innovation and production capabilities for surfactants, we are always scouting for opportunities to work with partners well-rooted in technologies which add to our strength in order to expand our product portfolio with additional biobased products.”

Collaboration with ACS to meet increasing consumer demands for safe and natural products

In collaboration with ACS, BASF developed a novel sophorolipid-based ingredient, produced via fermentation technology, and launched it in the Asian market under the brandname BioToLife™ in the second quarter of 2020.

ソホロ脂質 とは界面活性を有する糖脂質であり、ある種の非病原性酵母により産生される。

ACSは次世代界面活性剤(天然界面活性剤)の開発、生産を行っております。非食用油を使用 した世界初の天然界面活性剤開発に成功致しました。
国立研究開発法人 産業技術総合研究所と、非可食油使用の界面活性剤(ACS-Sophor)生産を目的とした共同研究
インドにてバイオサーファクタント(ソホロリピッド:ACS Sophor)を製造

  • 高い技術開発力 

    • 国立研究開発法人産業技術総合研究所との共同研究開発

  • 天然界面活性剤とは?何が違う?

    • 100%天然植物成分で出来た界面活性剤

  • 環境配慮型

    • 生産価格低減、大量生産成功 ➢インドへ技術移転 (OEM 生産)

  • 合成品との価格競争力

    • インドにて生産

  • 非食用油使用:食用に使用出来ない油の為、低価格で購入可能

  • 畜水産用途の場合は可食油使用

ACS-Sophor�の特徴、優位性

       バイオフィルム阻害効果、抗酸化性、高生分解性、低い表面張力、高い洗浄助剤力、水質汚染防止、土壌汚染防止

BioToLife™ has unique properties such as curbing the overgrowth of some harmful microbials and excellent cleansing, hence restoring an environment which supports the formation of a balanced micro-ecosystem in skin, scalp or oral care application. While the first product is already available, ACS and BASF will deepen the collaboration with the focus to develop a range of formulations based on sophorolipids with targeted performance.

“Biotechnology has been an established field in many industries for decades. More recently, it is also being used to develop Personal Care ingredients, predominantly active ingredients with high efficacy. ACS looks forward to a fruitful relationship with BASF,” said Yosuke Yamagata, CEO at ACS.

Collaboration with Holiferm to jointly develop fermentatively accessible glycolipids 糖脂質 for Home and Personal Care and Industrial Formulator applications

Holiferm aims to accelerate the transition to circular economy by developing and supplying sustainable, non-fossil based, fermentation-derived ingredients for industrial and consumer products. The recently signed Joint Development Agreement between BASF and Holiferm is aiming at developing different glycolipids outside of sophorolipids for Personal and Home Care as well as Industrial Formulators applications. Combining Holiferm’s unique production technology and process know-how, and BASF’s leading position and knowledge in these industries will enable innovative solutions to be brought to customers even faster in the future.

“We value the collaborative approach BASF takes to strategic development and believe this partnership allows both partners to leverage their key innovation strengths. We look forward to working together to develop these further,” said Ben Dolman, CEO at Holiferm.

 


2021/8/6

BASF, SINOPEC to Expand Verbund Site in Nanjing, China

The first tert-butyl acrylate plant outside of Germany using BASF technology to meet the growing demand for specialty chemicals in China.

BASF and SINOPEC will expand their Verbund site operated by BASF-YPC Co., Ltd. (BASF-YPC), a 50-50 joint venture of both companies in Nanjing, China. It includes the capacity expansion of several downstream chemical plants, including a new tert-butyl acrylate plant to support the growing Chinese market.

The partners will expand the production capacities of propionic acid, propionic aldehyde, ethyleneamines, ethanolamines and purified ethylene oxide, and build a new tert-butyl acrylate plant. The tert-butyl acrylate plant will be an extension to the downstream using acrylic acid and isobutene of the existing Verbund as feedstock, which marks the first time this advanced production technology is applied outside of Germany. The expanded and new plants are planned to come on stream in 2023.

“SINOPEC and BASF have carried out in-depth and friendly cooperation for a long time, earnestly implemented relevant requirements of the national and local governments to accelerate the transformation and green development of the petrochemical industry, continuously optimized the industrial structure, and promoted further extension of the industrial chain to the downstream,” said Yuefeng Gu, chairman of Sinopec Yangzi Petrochemical Company Limited and BASF-YPC Co., Ltd. “With the expansion of the Verbund site, we will provide more high-end new materials for the domestic market to meet the growing needs of domestic customers and the development of emerging industries.”

“Tert-butyl acrylate as a new product in our portfolio will further strengthen the market position of BASF-YPC,” said Bram Jansen, President of BASF-YPC. “Based on the 20-year success, we are expanding the local capacities to better meet the continually rising demand of our customers.”



2021年9月6日                             増設
 
BASFと寧波杉杉股份有限公司、中国で電池材料の合弁会社を設立 (寧波杉杉の子会社Hunan Shanshan Energy Technology にBASFが出資、JV化)
  • 世界最大の電池材料市場である中国において、急成長を遂げる電気自動車分野に注力
  • 技術的な専門知識と市場へのアクセスの組み合わせで、優れた顧客価値、迅速なイノベーション、コスト競争力を提供
  • すべての主要市場で、電池メーカーと自動車メーカーのための魅力的なグローバルサプライチェーンを提供するBASFの戦略的ロードマップを推進

 BASFと寧波杉杉股份有限公司 (NINGBO SHANSHAN CO.,LTD ) は、すべての関係当局の承認を経て、合弁会社「BASF Shanshan Battery Materials Co., Ltd.」を設立しました。出資比率は、BASF51%、杉杉49%で、過半数をBASFが占めています。

2021/5/20

BASF intends to acquire a 51% stake in Hunan Shanshan Energy Technology Co., Ltd., the cathode material business platform of Shanshan Co., Ltd.

After the transaction is completed, Shanshan's shareholding in Shanshan Energy has dropped to 49%, and no control will be exercised, and it will no longer be included in the scope of the consolidated statement of the listed company. Since then, BASF has integrated the core technology of cathode materials it has mastered into Shanshan’s energy production system to comprehensively enhance its technological competitiveness. On the one hand, it continues to increase investment, comprehensively transform and increase production capacity, and on the other hand, rely on BASF’s global supply chain and channels. Quickly develop customers and increase global market share.

この新会社は、中国の湖南省と寧夏省に4つの拠点を構え、1,600人以上の従業員を有しています。同社は原材料、正極材前駆体(PCAM)、正極材(CAM)、電池リサイクルなど、電池材料のバリューチェーンにおいて、すでに確固たる地位を築いています。

BASFの強固な技術力と開発力、グローバルな事業展開、そして原材料供給のための戦略的パートナーシップと、杉杉の豊富な経験、包括的な製品ポートフォリオ、優れたスケールアップ能力で、新会社は急速な成長を遂げる電気自動車(EV)市場に注力し、世界の家電製品やエネルギー貯蔵分野へも継続的に製品・サービスを提供します。

BASFと杉杉はともに、中国における同社の継続的な成長を促し、2022年までにCAMの年間生産量9万トンを目指しています。

BASF取締役のDr. マーカス・カミートは、「今回の中国での投資により、BASFは世界最大の電池市場に貢献するための、理想的なポジションを得ることができました。中国での確固たる地位を利用し、電池材料分野での当社のグローバルな成長をさらに加速させていきます」と述べています。

杉杉の鄭永剛会長は、「BASFと協力して、新たな合弁会社をさらに強化していくことを楽しみにしています。BASFと杉杉は、この合弁会社のEV市場における地位をさらに高め、中国および世界中のお客様に最高レベルの製品を提供していきます」と述べています。

BASFは、顧客との近接性、製品ポートフォリオの強化、持続可能な原材料の確保、供給に重点を置き、グローバルな事業展開を続けています。業界をけん引する16万トンのCAM生産能力を備えた、グローバルな電池材料のバリューチェーンを2022年までに構築するために、BASFは戦略的ロードマップを進めています。今回の杉杉との取引完了は、そのロードマップにおける大きな節目となりました。BASFのグローバルな製造・研究開発拠点によって、今後はすべての主要市場において、効率性、近接性、相乗効果とともに、電池メーカーや自動車メーカーのお客様にテーラーメイドの正極材を提供できるようになります。

■寧波杉杉股份有限公司について

寧波杉杉股份有限公司は、リチウムイオン電池の正極材、負極材、電解液の世界有数のサプライヤーです。2021年にLG化学の偏光板事業を買収し、高度な技術を持つ世界最大の液晶偏光板メーカーとなることを目指しています。2つの正極と負極のテクノロジーセンター、電解液のテクノロジーセンター、2つのポスドクセンターへの投資により、杉杉はリチウムイオン電池材料の世界をリードする研究開発拠点となっています。杉杉は、300件以上の特許技術を持ち、中国国家標準の制定に参加しています。

2020.06.10
LG、LCD用偏光板事業を中国企業に売却

LGが液晶パネル(LCD)主要素材である偏光板事業から手を引く。

LG化学は6月10日、中国の科学素材メーカー寧波杉杉と11億ドルでLCD用偏光板事業を売却する条件付き契約を締結したと正式に発表した。

液晶パネルの核心素材のひとつである偏光板は、液晶パネルの前後に付着して光を通過または遮断するフィルムだ。一時LG化学はLCD用偏光板の世界市場でシェア27%、年間売り上げ2兆ウォンを上げるほど主導的企業だった。だが最近中国の競合企業の低価格競争で収益性が落ちていることから、事業から撤退して未来の収益源に集中することにした。

LG化学は「有機ELを中心に核心競争力を確保するのに集中しており、偏光板事業は韓国の梧倉(オチャン)工場で生産される有機EL偏光板を主力事業に育成する計画」と明らかにした。自動車用LCD偏光板など一部製品は今回の売却対象から除外する。LG化学は内部理事会と中国杉杉の株主総会の承認を経た上で売却を正式に確定する予定だ。

LGは最近「脱LCD戦略」を推進してきた。
LG化学は今年初めにLCD用カラーフィルター感光材事業を中国雅克科技の子会社である斯陽国際に580億ウォンで売却した。
LDCガラス基板事業も売却を推進したが、買い手が付かずそのまま撤退した。
偏光板事業も昨年下半期から売却に向けた本入札を進め今回売却を決めた。中国メーカーの技術力向上と低価格攻勢で事実上LCD事業を段階的にたたむ手順だ。

2020/6/12 LG Chem、液晶ディスプレイ偏光板事業を売却、有機ELに集中

■BASF Shanshan Battery Materials Co., Ltd.について

BASF Shanshan Battery Materials Co., Ltd.は、BASFと杉杉が2021年に設立した合弁会社です(BASF51%、杉杉49%)。同社は2003年に杉杉によって設立され、すでに中国における正極材(CAM)のリーディングサプライヤーとして、酸化コバルトリチウム(LCO)や三元系正極材などの業界をリードする製品を提供してきました。中国湖南省の長沙、寧郷、ならびに寧夏省の水山に4つの生産拠点を有しています。2022年には年間9万トンの生産能力を持つことになります。湖南省長沙サイトには、240人以上の科学者や専門家を擁し、製品の研究開発、分析、試験に重点を置いた先進的な研究開発センターがすでに建設されています。

Shanshan Technology (Lithium-ion battery) anode-material industry includes Shanghai Shanshan Tech Co., Ltd., Ningbo Shanshan New Material Tech Co., Ltd. , Chenzhou Shanshan New Material Co., Ltd. , Huzhou Chuangya Power Battery Material Co., Ltd. and Fujian Shanshan Tech Co., Ltd.. The whole industry contains total asset size of more than one billion RMB, with annual production capability of 60000 tons at the end of 2017. 
Being the domestic first high-tech enterprise which specializes in R&D, production and sales of Lithium-ion battery anode materials, after more than a decade of development, the company has greatly expanded its product structure from MCMB to diversified product structure of five series of more than 30 kinds of products, including MCMB, natural graphite, artificial graphite, composite graphite and other anode materials (soft-carbon, hard-carbon,LTO and alloy materials). These products have been widely applied to middle and high-end fields of Lithium-ion energy storage battery. 
The company possesses a high-quality and well-experienced R&D technical team, with the support from national post-doctoral workstation and the scientific research platform provided by the technical center of enterprise, now we have 60 inventive technologies obtained national patents authorization and more than 180 invention patents are in progress. The key technical indicators have reached international advanced level. Therefore, the company has promoted the development of lithium-ion battery industry in China and obtained predominant social and economic benefits. 
Ever since its establishment, the company has been continuously devoting itself to R&D in the field of Lithium-ion battery anode materials. Regarding “Material push energy revolution” as our mission, we will try our best to promote the popularity and influence of enterprise in the l

 

------------------------

June 15, 2022
 
BASF expands production capacity in China for industry-leading cathode active materials and achieves multi-ton scale manufacturing for manganese-rich products
  • Newly expanded lines incorporate cutting-edge energy recovery technology for a leading carbon footprint
  • Commissioning of new capacity will start from Q4 2022 to support growing market demand

BASF Shanshan Battery Materials Co., Ltd., a BASF majority-owned company in China (BASF 51%; Shanshan 49%), is expanding its battery materials capacity in Changsha, Hunan Province, and Shuizuishan, Ningxia Province, to meet the fast-growing local and global demands of the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The expansion project will enable BSBM to achieve 100 kt annual capacity for cathode active materials (CAM).

The new production lines are designed with high flexibility to produce an advanced product portfolio and meet customers’ diversified needs, from high-nickel and ultra-high-nickel nickel-cobalt-manganese oxide (NCM) for polycrystalline and single crystalline, as well as manganese-rich NCM products.

The manganese-rich products are already manufactured on a multi-ton scale. This progress in material development will be further accelerated, thus broadening the use of such products by customers.

“Our manganese-rich products are well balanced in cost-performance compared to other ternary cathode materials and offer customers a higher security on lower metal cost as manganese is the most abundantly available metal compared to cobalt or nickel, which have recently been subject to significant price increases and fluctuations,” said Dr. Peter Schuhmacher, President, Catalysts division at BASF.

The new lines are equipped with innovative energy recovery technologies including off-gas, waste heat and oxygen recycling. This is the first time that such technologies have been used in the battery industry and combine BSBM’s broad industrial operation experience with BASF’s chemical process design know-how.

“With the synergy on technology expertise in R&D and production, we are glad to see that BASF’s chemical know-how will be a catalyst to contribute to a more sustainable CAM offering with an industry-leading carbon footprint,” added Dr. Michael Baier, Senior Vice President of BASF Battery Materials and Chairman of the Board of BSBM.

Embedding the Smart Factory concept for automated, intelligent and sustainable plants, the expansion projects have implemented industry-leading standards in process design, production environment management and dust control to meet the critical qualification requirements in the battery materials industry and at the same time enable high throughput with outstanding quality.

“We have been continuously upgrading BSBM’s manufacturing and environmental protection facilities to meet world-class standards,” said Jay Yang, CEO of BSBM. “We are continuing to execute our company’s commitment to our customers and employees to make BSBM a more environmentally friendly and responsible CAM producer.”

The commissioning of the new lines will start from the fourth quarter of 2022.

To learn more about BASF battery materials and BASF’s commitment to e-mobility, visit our website:

https://catalysts.basf.com/products-and-industries/battery-materials

 

 

 

 



October 25, 2021
 
BASF and SVOLT form partnership to advance battery materials development and battery recycling solutions globally
  • Partnership will combine the strengths of both parties on cell manufacturing, cathode active materials and battery recycling to accelerate global progress towards carbon neutrality

BASF and SVOLT have entered into an agreement in which both parties will partner throughout their global operations with regards to cathode active materials (CAM) development, raw materials supply and battery recycling for SVOLT’s battery cells. The cooperation will also enhance the research and development (R&D) capabilities for both companies in sustainable battery materials and strengthen both parties’ core competitiveness in the largest battery market, China, and globally.

Furthermore, the cooperation will support China’s carbon reduction target and accelerate global progress towards carbon neutrality. Both companies will also assess joint upstream resourcing to strengthen the security of raw material supply.

“The strategic partnership with SVOLT will further enhance our strong position in the fast-growing battery materials market,” said Dr. Peter Schuhmacher, President, Catalysts division. “As a globally leading battery materials supplier, BASF is ideally positioned to deliver tailored high-performance cathode active materials for SVOLT’s leading cell technology.”

Yang Hongxin, Chairman and CEO of SVOLT, said, “The strategic cooperation with BASF is an important part of SVOLT’s global supply chain. This strategic cooperation will help us to complement each other’s strengths along the battery supply chain, accelerate innovation capabilities in CAM R&D, and continuously promote portfolio innovation and core competitiveness for EV batteries.”

As the largest chemical supplier to the automotive industry, BASF has established a strong position in the CAM market including a global manufacturing and R&D footprint, and a broad portfolio of mid- to high-nickel, manganese-rich, cobalt-free CAM. In Europe, BASF is introducing CAM production with an industry-leading carbon footprint through its advanced process technology, a secured local raw materials supply chain, a favorable energy mix for production, as well as short and effective logistics along the supply chain. BASF is continuously working closely with partners to accelerate innovation and form a sustainable battery value chain worldwide.

BASFは、グローバルな製造・研究開発拠点を有しており、中・高ニッケル系、マンガンリッチ系、コバルトフリーの正極材の幅広いポートフォリオを含め、正極材市場で確固たる地位を築いている。

BASFは2020年2月12日、欧州の電気自動車(EV)バリューチェーンを支援するための多段階投資計画の一環として、ドイツ Schwarzheideに電池材料の新たな生産拠点を設けることを発表しました。最新鋭の工場では正極材(CAM)を製造し、年間約40万台のEVを供給できる規模の初期生産能力を有します。

2021年7月8 Schwarzheideにある正極材(CAM)工場の敷地内に、電池リサイクルの試作工場を新設すると発表

 

SVOLT is a global high-tech company for batteries. It has established seven R&D centers in Wuxi, Baoding, Shanghai and Shenzhen in China as well as in Japan, Korea and India. Its unique high-speed stacking technology, high-safety cobalt-free batteries, solid-state batteries, automotive-grade AI intelligent manufacturing, etc. are all at world leading level. It is actively expanding the upstream and downstream value chains and strives to build a great company in global new energy industry.

 

SVOLT Energy Technology Co., Ltd.   蜂巣能源科技有限公司

中国の完成車メーカーである長城汽車股份有限公司(Great Wall Motor Company Limited)の動力電池事業部から独立し、2018年に江蘇省常州市に設立されたリチウムイオン電池関連製品の研究開発、製造を行う企業。中国国内を始め韓国、インドにも研究開発拠点をもち、新エネルギー自動車向けの最先端材料の研究開発を強化している。

SVOLT Energy Technology (formerly the Battery Business Unit of Great Wall Motor) started pre-research work on batteries in 2012, and separated as an independent entity in February 2018. Headquartered in Changzhou, Jiangsu, SVOLT is committed to spearheading innovation in the manufacturing and R&D of the next-generation of battery materials, cells, modules, systems, BMS and energy storage systems.

Our company has about 3100 employees, including 1400 R&D engineers. We will have invested 26 billion yuan in global planning for plant construction by 2025.

蜂巣能源科技(SVOLT)は2021年7月16日、希少金属のコバルトを使わない「コバルトフリー電池」の量産を世界で初めて開始したと発表した。同社が独自開発したもので、正極材にニッケル、コバルト、マンガンを使う「三元系」のリチウムイオン電池からコバルトを取り除いた「二元系」であるのが特徴だ。

リチウムは極めて不安定
正極に用いる際には他の金属と化合させて、安定化を図らざるを得ない。その際に用いられるのが、コバルト、ニッケル、マンガンなど

リン酸鉄系リチウムイオン電池

リン酸鉄系リチウムイオン電池とは、リン酸を正極に使用している電池です。
電池内で発熱はあっても熱暴走が起こりにくく、安全性が高いと言われている電池です。また、原材料費が安く、マンガン系リチウムイオン電池などと比較して、安く製造することができます。電動工具や電動自動車などで使用されています。

NCA系リチウムイオン電池

NCA系リチウムイオン電池とは、NCA(ニッケル、コバルト、アルミニウムの頭文字を取った化合物)を正極に使用している電池です。
ニッケル系の課題であった安全性という点を克服し、耐熱性を高めた電池です。他のリチウムイオン電池と比較して、高エネルギー密度化に優れています。医療機器や電動自動車などで使用されています。発熱量が少なく低温時の放電特性にも優れています。

三元系リチウムイオン電池

三元系とは、NMC(ニッケル、マンガン、コバルトの頭文字を取った化合物)を正極に使用している電池です。
コバルト系リチウムイオン電池よりも安全性を高め、車載向けに改良されたものとなります。発熱量が少なく低温時の放電特性にも優れています。医療機器や電動自動車などで使用されています。

SVOLT Energy Technology Co., Ltd. (SVOLT) announced the start of series production of its proprietary novel nickel-manganese (NMX) battery cells at a ceremony in Jintan, Chin

Series production of the new NMX batteries has started on schedule. The pilot production with ten tons of cobalt-free cathode material was successfully completed at the battery cell factory in Jintan back in January 2021. SVOLT has been mass-producing the cobalt-free cathode material since April.

SVOLT is initially producing two sizes of its NMX batteries (115 Ah and 226 Ah), which are 75 percent nickel and 25 percent manganese. Thanks to the complete elimination of the heavy metal cobalt, one of the most expensive and controversial cathode elements, as well as a lowered nickel content, SVOLT’s cobalt-free NMX cells are not only much more sustainable, but also around five percent cheaper than classic NCM battery cells. This makes them particularly suitable for the broad mid-range market.  (Ah= ampere hour)

SVOLTのコバルトフリー電池のエネルギー密度は、1キログラム当たり240Wh(ワット時)。世界の大手電池メーカーが製造している三元系の電池は同250〜280Whであり、それに比べてエネルギー密度が低い。

電池業界では長年、EV(電気自動車)などに搭載されるリチウムイオン電池のコバルトフリー化が待望されてきた。コバルトは年間産出量が全世界で約15万トンしかなく、電池メーカーは原材料を安定的に確保するためコバルトへの依存度を極力小さくしたいと望んでいるからだ。


電池業界のデータによれば、2021年上半期に生産されたEV(電気自動車)などに搭載されたSVOLTの車載用電池は0.84GWhで、市場シェアは1.6%、企業別のランキングは8位だった。なお首位の寧コ時代新能源科技(CATL)のシェアは49.1%、2位の比亜迪(BYD)は14.6%、3位の韓国のLG化学は9%を占めた。

新興企業であるSVOLTは、先行するライバルとの激しい競争に直面している。そこで同社は、リン酸鉄系や三元系など主流のリチウムイオン電池だけでなく、新技術にも果敢に挑戦している。希少金属のコバルトを使わないコバルトフリー電池と、三元系より複雑な化学組成を持つ四元系電池の開発計画を2019年に発表。コバルトフリー電池は2021年7月から量産を始めており、四元系電池は2022年の量産実現を目指す。

2020年3月、リチウムイオン動力電池とその陽極材料、蓄電池と関連するインテグレーション製品の研究開発などを行う目的で、日本法人の蜂巣能源日本技研株式会社を横浜市に設立した。

On 12 July 2021,  Svolt and Stellantis announce battery partnership.


From 2025 onwards, Stellantis will also source its lithium-ion batteries from SVOLT. SVOLT will provide Stellantis with a broad product portfolio for this purpose, from battery cells and high-voltage storage systems to battery management systems. For the order, SVOLT will use its production capacities in China and future production capacities in Europe. With the partnership, SVOLT is part of Stellantis’ global EV battery sourcing strategy of more than 130 GWh by 2025 and 260 GWh by 2030. Stellantis will use two battery chemistries to support various customer needs: a high energy-density option and a nickel cobalt-free alternative.

2021年9月17日、四川省成都市に動力電池の新工場を設けると発表した。年産能力は60ギガワット時。併せて研究開発(R&D)拠点も設置する。 成都東部新区内に220億元(約3,700億円)を投じて建設する。The project will be industrialized in three phases, with expansion stages of 20 GWh each.

 

cathode active materials (CAM)

電池には()と表示された極と()と表示された極の2つの電極がある。前者を「陽極」cathode、後者を「陰極」anodeと呼ぶ。
一方、電気分解では「陽極」をanodeと呼び、「陰極」をcathodeと呼ぶ。つまり、電池と電気分解では「陽極」と「陰極」に対する英語が逆になっている。

 


2021/11/11

Sika to buy former BASF chemicals company from Lone Star for $6 bln

 Sika to buy MBCC Group for 5.5 billion Swiss francs
 Says deal will boost earnings strongly from first year
 Says deal will help become a "sustainability champion"
 Shares trade 10% higher

Swiss chemicals company Sika has agreed to buy MBCC Group for 5.5 billion Swiss francs ($6 billion) to boost its position in sustainable building, making its biggest ever acquisition in the fragmented $70 billion construction chemicals sector.

BASFは2020年9月30日、世界的なプライベート・エクイティ・ファームであるLone Starの関連会社への建設化学品事業の譲渡を完了した。
買収価格は、現金及び負債がゼロの状態で31億7千万ユーロ。

これに伴い、建設化学品事業は、ドイツ マンハイムに本社をもつ、新たに設立されたMBCCグループとなった。

BASFとLone Starの関連会社は2019年12月21日、BASFの建設化学品事業の譲渡譲受契約を締結した。

Sika said on Thursday it was buying MBCC, the former BASF Construction Chemicals, from an affiliate of private equity firm Lone Star Funds. MBCC's products include long-lasting flooring systems and admixtures to extend the life of concrete.

"Going forward, we need products for ... a sustainable, CO2-reduced footprint in the construction industry. For this, we cannot just modify what we have been doing in the past," Chief Executive Thomas Hasler told a press conference in Zurich.

Sika has identified sustainability as a major driver in the construction market, as building users seek to extend the life-span of their offices and factories and use materials with lower carbon footprints.

The deal "will add about 30% to Sika's topline and 25% to its EBITDA, thereby making it the undisputed global market leader in construction chemicals," Vontobel analysts said.

MBCC, based in Mannheim, Germany, expects 2021 sales of 2.9 billion Swiss francs.

The move for MBCC represents a step change for Sika, which has already bought seven small companies in China, Mexico, the United States, Japan, Brazil and Russia this year.

2021/4/28 シーカは横浜ゴムの接着剤事業であるハマタイトを買収することで合意した。ハマタイトは自動車産業や建設産業へ接着剤やシーリング材を提供している。

中国   Shenzhen Landun Holding Co. Ltd.  professional waterproof system operation supplier
メキシコ Bexel Internacional S.A. de C.V.  solutions for construction
米国   American Hydrotech Inc.  premium waterproofing and roofing products
米国   DriTac USA 2021    premium grade adhesives
ブラジル BR Massa (Supermassa do Brasil Ltda.)
ロシア     Kreps LLC     leading mortar manufacturer

Sika, whose products are used in areas such as waterproofing, is stepping up acquisitions, aiming to increase its share of the construction chemicals market from around 10% now to 12% by 2025.

It expects that market to increase to around 80 billion francs per year by 2025 from 70 billion francs currently, with government stimulus programmes and trends towards more sustainable building fuelling a global infrastructure boom.

Baader Helvea analyst Markus Mayer was surprised Sika was buying the former BASF business for a 64% uplift to the price Lone Star paid in 2019, after Sika had at the time flagged several weak points of the business.

"To turn around the weak spots of MBCC will be one of the most challenging tasks for Sika," Mayer said. "In contrast, the integration track record of Sika is very strong and therefore if anyone can turn around the business it might be Sika."

The deal represents a multiple of 11.5 times MBCC's expected 2022 EBITDA, Sika said. Sika expects to achieve synergies of 160–180 million francs, bringing the multiple down to 8.5.

It will finance the deal, which it expects to be "strongly accretive" to earnings per share from the first full year after closing, with a bridge loan.

Bank of America (BAC.N) advised Sika on the deal.

 


NOVEMBER 18, 2021

KaMin to Acquire BASF Kaolin Minerals Business

KaMin LLC, a global performance minerals company owned by IMin Partners, and BASF announced today that they have entered into a definitive agreement in which KaMin will acquire the BASF kaolin minerals business. Currently, the kaolin minerals business is part of BASF’s Performance Chemicals division.

BASF カオリン:

カオリンは様々のものに使用されています。製紙やコーティングプロセスで使用され、光沢と不透明度を高め、印刷適性を向上させます。 また、多くの紙用途の費用効果の高いミネラルとして使用することもできます。
インク、塗料、コーティングでは、カオリンは機能性を提供し、高価な二酸化チタンを拡張する費用効果の高い顔料として使用されます。
ケーブル、ゴム、プラスチックでは、カオリンが最終製品に強度と耐久性を追加し、外観を改善します。
また、建設業界では、カオリンは強度を高めながら、さまざまな種類のコンクリートの外観の改善に貢献しています。

The transaction includes production hub sites in Daveyville, Toddville, Edgar, Gordon and related mines, reserves and mills in Toomsboro and Sandersville in Georgia, USA. The co-located refinery catalysts operations will continue to be owned and operated by BASF’s refinery catalysts business and are not part of the divestiture.

“The acquisition of BASF’s kaolin business is a transformative step forward in KaMin’s strategy. The combination of these two complementary businesses allows us to further diversify our company into growth -oriented markets and augment our overall manufacturing and technical capabilities,” said Michael W. Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer of KaMin. “By combining BASF’s calcine portfolio with KaMin’s hydrous products, we will be able to provide a compelling suite of kaolin-based performance mineral solutions to our distributor partners and customers globally.”


C. Rankin Hobbs, Partner and Co-Founder of IMin Partners added, “This deal extends IMin’s portfolio in the industrial minerals sector and creates a significant opportunity to deliver enhanced value to all stakeholders investors, employees, customers and suppliers.”


“BASF’s kaolin minerals business is a well-positioned player in the growing specialty industrial minerals market. Joining a global performance minerals player will provide a more conducive environment for longer term profitable growth for the business,” added Dr. Thomas Kloster, President of BASF’s Performance Chemicals division.


The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory clearances . Pending approval by the relevant merger authorities, closing of the transaction is expected in the second half of 2022. The parties have agreed not to disclose financial details of the transaction. Grace Matthews, Inc. is serving as the exclusive financial advisor to KaMin and IMin Partners.


About KaMin KaMin is recognized in the industry as a global supplier with more than 90 years of experience in delivering performance mineral solutions in a broad spectrum of end use markets including: building & construction, automotive & catalyst, agriculture, health & beauty, packaging, and specialty & graphic paper. The company mines, produces, and distributes its products from its three US plants located in Georgia Macon, Sandersville and Wrens and internationally through their Cadam subsidiary facilities in Brazil and Europe.

A leader in fine particle kaolin, CADAM SA has been mining and processing kaolin for nearly 40 years. Founded in 1976 in the Jari River region of northern Brazil, today CADAM’s product portfolio features quality kaolin clays with high shear rheology for optimal smoothness and coverage.

KaMin LLC purchased a controlling interest in the firm in 2012, and CADAM’s extensive premium reserves and competitive cost position have made KaMin the second largest kaolin clay enterprise worldwide, reinforcing its position as the global leader in fine and ultrafine particle kaolin clays widely used in high carbonate coating formulations.

About IMin Partners IMin Partners is a capital source and a strategic partner to businesses, owners and management teams in the specialty raw materials industry. With an exclusive focus on the industrial minerals and specialty chemicals industries, our core competencies include equity capital investments, operational and market expertise, alignment of i nterests and development of culture. www.iminpartners.com

 

 


2021/11/29 

ENGIE and BASF sign power purchase agreement for renewable energy in Europe

  • Long-term PPA over 25 years
  • Total volume amounts up to 20.7 terawatt hours
  • Renewable energy for low-emission chemical production

ENGIE(French utility)and BASF have signed a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for renewable energy in Europe. Under the PPA, effective as of January 1, 2022, ENGIE will provide BASF with up to 20.7 terawatt hours of renewable electricity in total throughout the term of the agreement.

Multiple European BASF sites will be supplied from ENGIE’s renewable project portfolio in Europe. The electricity will initially come from onshore wind farms located in various sites throughout the Spanish territory in which ENGIE acts as equity investor or energy manager. In the further course, ENGIE will have the option to either deliver power from existing Spanish assets or from future onshore and offshore wind farms.

“BASF and ENGIE have been working together for many years. With this agreement we take a significant next step on our path to climate-neutral chemical production. One important lever is replacing fossil-based electricity with renewable electricity. This long-term contract with a key player in the European energy market secures substantial volumes of electricity from renewable sources for BASF. At the same time, it makes BASF an enabler for green energy triggering additional projects for renewable power in Europe,” said Dr. Martin Brudermüller, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE.

Catherine MacGregor, CEO of ENGIE, said: “Thanks to our large, diverse and growing portfolio of renewable energy production, ENGIE is able to provide carbon-free energy and electricity to its clients, including leading multinational companies such as BASF. It demonstrates our ability to accompany them on their own path to carbon neutrality, an achievement we are very proud of. This contract will deliver steady economic and environmental value in the long run for both partners.”

BloombergNEF, the reference in terms of strategic analysis in the field of energy transition, ranks ENGIE first position at the end of July 2021 for signed corporate PPAs. At the end of September, ENGIE has already signed new Corporate Power Purchase Agreements for a total volume of 1.9 gigawatts since the beginning of the year (versus 1.5 gigawatts for the full year 2020), to provide major industrial and tech companies with renewable power.

This agreement is fully aligned with ENGIE’s long-term strategy to develop renewables and BASF’s climate protection goals. BASF aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by the year 2030 compared with 2018 and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

From 2030 onwards, BASF wants to implement low-emission technologies, such as CO2-free methods for the production of hydrogen and electrically heated steam crackers, which will significantly increase BASF’s demand of renewable power.


07 Dec 2021  BASF to spin off catalysts unit 

BASF said it would carve out its mobile emissions catalysts business and spend up to EUR4.5bn on battery materials and recycling.

The stand alone mobile emissions catalysts and associated precious metal services entity will be based in Iselin, New Jersey.

The new stand alone structure will prepare the business for the upcoming changes in the internal combustion engine market and allow for future strategic options, BASF said in a statement.

The new entity will continue to operate globally and comprise 20 production sites and 4,000 employees.

The carve out process will start in January 2022 and is expected to take up to 18 months.

Markus Kamieth, in charge of the surface technologies segment, said: “BASF continuously evaluates its portfolio and with the carve-out we want to give this business more entrepreneurial freedom and agility, so it can focus even better on the needs of its markets and customers.”

BASF Automotive Catalysts and Recycling will be a distinct legal entity structure headed by Dirk Bremm as CEO.

“BASF will become a leader in innovative and sustainable cathode active materials with a significant production capacity footprint in Asia, Europe and North America,” said Peter Schuhmacher, president of the catalysts

ーーーーーーーーーーー

2017/3/3

BASF、インドでの排ガス触媒生産能力を2倍に拡張 チェンナイに於ける新規生産工場の運用を開始

BASF傘下のグループ会社で、インドの触媒事業を担う、BASF Catalysts India Private Limitedは3月2日、インド・チェンナイにて排ガス触媒生産工場の操業を開始した。

この当地に於ける47,000平方メートルにも及ぶ新工場は、3年間に亘る増設プロジェクトによって遂に完成し、新たに既存工場に代わる施設となる。

またこれにより、インドでの触媒生産能力が2倍に増加する。 この新たな拠点工場は、軽量車、重量車、および二輪車向けの排ガス触媒など、あらゆる触媒ソリューションを生産するワールドクラスの生産ラインが並んでおり、増大する市場の需要と、それに伴う顧客層からの技術的ニーズに応えるために設置された。

なお同社によるとこの工場では、TWC(三元触媒)、DOC(ディーゼル酸化触媒)、及びCSF(触媒化スートフィルター)、SCR(選択接触還元)を含む排ガス制御触媒ソリューションであるBASF EMPROTMが生産されると云う。

またBASFが従事する化学品業界にとって、これらの要因や社会環境は、重要な機会の創出となり、BASFはインドでこれらの実現に向けた積極的な投資を行っています。

実際、チェンナイでの自動車排ガス触媒工場の新設は、BASFが成長に向けた資産への投資に対し、継続的に重点を置いていることを示しています。

現地法人である、BASF India Limitedや BASF Chemicals India Private Limited、BASF Catalysts India Private Limitedを通して、BASFは過去4年にわたり、インド国内での生産や研究開発に約3億ユーロを投資しています」とコメントしている。

なお今日、BASFの触媒事業本部は、環境触媒とプロセス触媒の世界的なリーディング・サプライヤーとなっている。

同事業本部は、私たちが呼吸する大気の保護、生活を支える燃料の製造、先進のバッテリー材料などを含む多岐にわたる化学品やプラスチックの効率的な生産を支える技術開発と、専門知識を提供。独自のソリューションを開発している。


  

BASF and Heraeus to form JV in China to recover PGMs from spent automotive catalysts

BASF and Heraeus have agreed to form a joint venture (BASF: 50%; Heraeus: 50%) to recover precious metals from spent automotive catalysts. The new company, named BASF HERAEUS (China) Metal Resource Co., Ltd will be set up in Pinghu, China(浙江省嘉興市の平湖市). The founding of the legal entity is targeted in Q1 2022, following the approval of the relevant authorities. Construction is planned to begin in 2022, with start of operations in 2023.

Heraeusは1851年に設立され、ドイツのHanauを本拠地とする先端技術をもつグローバル企業。創業は1660年で、ヘレウス家が開業した薬局にルーツがある。今日では、環境、エレクトロニクス、ヘルスケア、工業分野において積極的に活動している。

China has limited natural resources in Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) consisting predominately of platinum, palladium and rhodium and strongly relies on imports. Recycling scrap materials, such as spent automotive catalytic converters, to recover PGMs, enable a circular economy. The precious metals are used to make new products for the automotive, chemical, electronics and green hydrogen industries.

Recycled precious metals are furthermore very environmentally friendly and have as much as a 90% lower CO2 footprint than primary metals from a mine. Ensuring a local supply of recycled precious metals for China is an enabler for a sustainable future.

Heraeus Precious Metals is a leading provider of precious metals services and products. The company is one of the world’s largest refiners of platinum group metals (PGMs) and a leading name in industrial precious metals trading. Its precious metals products are used in a wide variety of industries, including the chemical, pharmaceutical, glass, electronics and automotive industries.



2022
3 8

BASF
、マレーシアで Ultramid® PA Ultradur®
PBT の生産能力を拡大

2023 年第 2 四半期から増産可能
自 動車 、家 電 、電 気・電 子機 器業 界にお け る エ ン ジ ニア リ ン グプラ スチ ック の需要増加に対応


BASF
Ultramid® PA(ウルトラミッド、PA:ポリアミド)と Ultradur® PBT(ウルトラデュアー、PBT: ポリブチレン・テレフタレート)生産能力を年間5千トン拡大します。マレーシア・パシルグダンにある生産拠点におい2023 年第 2 四半期からの増産を予定しています。

BASF は、エンジニアリングプラスチック業界成長機会をもたらすように積極的に取り組んでいます。今回の生産能力拡大により、当社の Ultramid® PA Ultradur®PBT に対する需要に応えるともに、ASEAN における市場ポジション強化できるでしょう」BASF パフォーマンスマテリアルズ事業本部
アジア太平洋地域のシニア・バイスプレジデント、アンディ・ポスルスウェイトは述べています。
ASEAN
のエンジニアリングプラスチック市場は、2020 年から 2030 年にかけ 5%で成長すると予測されています。この成長は、自動車、家電、電気・電子機器などさまざまな産業分野におけるエンジニアリングプラスチックの需要牽引されるものです。

マレーシア ジョホール州のパシルグダンにある生産拠点 1999 年に建設されそのエンジニアリングプラスチックのコンパウンド工場では、Ultramid® PA Ultradur® PBTを生産しています。
Ultramid®
Ultradur®は、自動車用途電気・電子分野、工業製品、消費財などに使用されています。

 



March 4, 2022

BASF acquires site for North American battery materials and recycling expansion in Canada

  • New site will help to power North America’s transition to e-mobility and strengthen BASF’s position as a leading global cathode active materials (CAM) provider
  • Target footprint initially with CAM production followed by precursor cathode materials, recycling and metals refining capacities

BASF signed an agreement to secure land for its future cathode active materials and recycling site in Bécancour, Quebec, Canada, as part of its commitment to support North American producers in their transition to e-mobility. A regional supply chain is critical to ensure reliable and resilient battery materials supply.

The investment is intended to further enhance BASF’s CAM production footprint in North America by complementing its existing manufacturing sites. The new site allows for ample space to expand up to 100 kt CAM per year with potential for fully integrated precursor cathode active materials (PCAM) supply. The site will also be well connected to BASF’s global metal sourcing network with provision for a nickel and cobalt intermediates base metal refinery and recycling of all battery metals (including lithium). The opportunity for potential future upstream investment integration supports BASF’s strategy to build an integrated, closed-loop battery materials ecosystem in all key regions. 

Project planning is progressing and subject to necessary approvals, BASF targets project commissioning in 2025.

“With new investments in electric vehicles and supporting infrastructure being announced continuously in North America, we are pleased to pursue our own investment in the region,” said Dr. Peter Schuhmacher, President, Catalysts division. “This land acquisition is a necessary prerequisite to further advance our strategy to grow our footprint in key regions to better serve our customer’s operations with sustainable and reliable local supply. We look forward to supporting the e-mobility transition in the United States, Canada, Mexico and beyond.”

With an ideal location along the Saint Lawrence River between Montreal and Quebec City, the new site offers favorable conditions for highly efficient logistics and it would rely on competitive hydropower to further reduce the carbon footprint of its products compared to the industry average.


2023410

BASF
、中国湛江の新たなフェアブント(統合生産拠点)に アクリル酸およびアクリル酸エステルの生産設備を着工

中国とアジア太平洋地域急速に成長るアクリル酸のバリューチェーンに対応

2025
年に稼働予定の大規模な生産設備

湛江フェアブント拠点での一貫生産

BASFは、中国の広東省湛江市新たなフェアブント(統合生産拠点)精製アクリル酸(GAA)、アクリル酸ブチルBA)、およびアクリル酸2エチルヘキシル(2-EHA)の工場を含む、新たな生産設備着工しました2025 年まで稼働年間生産能力は BA 40トン2-EHA 10トンを見込んでいます

BASF 石油化学品事業プレジデントであるハートヴィッヒ・ミッヒェルズ次のように述べています。「今回の着工は、中国のアクリルバリューチェーンにおける生産能力をさらに拡大する上で重要な節目となります。これらの大規模な設備によって、衛生・塗料などさまざまな産業で使用されるアクリル中国およびアジア市場における需要の高まりに応えることができます


February 9, 2024  BASF to divest shares in its two joint ventures in Korla, China     新疆ウイグル     

BASF to exit joint ventures in China's Xinjiang, where human rights groups have documented abuses including forced labour in detention camps

In the fourth quarter of 2023, BASF started the process to divest its shares in the two joint venture companies BASF Markor Chemical Manufacturing (Xinjiang) Co., Ltd. and Markor Meiou Chemical (Xinjiang) Co., Ltd. in Korla, China.

As part of BASF’s global strategy for 1,4-butanediol (BDO), BASF has assessed the market environment and product carbon footprints (PCF) of BDO and its downstream products from different production sites worldwide. BDO value chains are under increased competitive pressure and characterized by global overcapacities. Furthermore, carbide-based BDO and polytetrahydrofuran produced in Korla have a significantly higher PCF due to the use of coal as a base raw material and the high energy intensity of the production process. In the future, BASF will customize its global portfolio of BDO and affiliated downstream products to provide competitive low-PCF offerings.

The situation in the Xinjiang region has always been part of BASF’s overall assessment of its joint ventures in Korla. Regular due diligence measures including internal and external audits have not found any evidence of human rights violations in the two joint ventures. Nonetheless, recently published reports related to the joint venture partner contain serious allegations that indicate activities inconsistent with BASF’s values. 2023年11月にマーカー社の社員がウイグル族の自宅を訪問し、中国当局に報告書を送るといったスパイ活動を行っていた疑惑を報じた。Consequently, BASF will accelerate the ongoing process to divest its shares in the two joint ventures in Korla, subject to negotiations and required approvals of the relevant authorities.

It is important to note that, also in the context of the public reports, BASF has no indication that employees of the two joint ventures in Korla were involved in human rights violations. The most recent reports relate to BASF’s joint venture partner, in which BASF does not have a stake. BASF’s presence in China remains otherwise unchanged, and the company is fully committed to its business activities and planned investments in the country. Already today, Greater China accounts for around half of global chemical production. Global growth in chemical production until 2030 will be driven by Greater China, which will account for around 80% of the total growth during the period from 2022 to 2030.

29. Jänner 2016

BASF and Markor inaugurate new production plant for butanediol in Xinjiang, China

Today BASF and Xinjiang Markor Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. (
新疆美克化学工業 “Markor”) inaugurated a new butanediol (BDO) plant in Korla, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, in Northwest China. The plant, which has an annual capacity of 100,000 tons, is operated by a joint venture between Markor and BASF registered under the name of Markor Meiou Chemical (Xinjiang) Co., Ltd.

BDO is used in the manufacturing of technical plastics, polyurethanes, solvents, electronic chemicals and elastic fibers.

Markor Meiou Chemical (Xinjiang) Co., Ltd. (Markor 51%, BASF 49%) is developing a BDO plant with annual capacity of 100,000 tons BDO.

About Markor
Xinjiang Markor Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. is a subsidiary of Markor Investment Group Co., Ltd. which was founded in 2004. It is located in Markor Chemical Park in Economic and Technological Development zone, Korla, Xinjiang, China. By leveraging the comprehensive advantages of local natural gas resources in Korla, Markor’s BDO production has achieved outstanding performance in energy saving and environmental protection. Markor is one of the leading manufacturers in the BDO downstream market, and has achieved outstanding performance in product quality and customer service.

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July 6, 2016

Today BASF and Xinjiang Markor Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. (“Markor”) inaugurated a new PolyTHF® (polytetrahydrofuran, chemical name: polytetramethylene ether glycol) plant in Korla, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region in northwest China. Commercial products are now available for delivery to local customers in China.

The plant, with an annual capacity of 50,000 tons of PolyTHF, is operated by a joint venture between BASF and Markor registered under the name of BASF Markor Chemical Manufacturing (Xinjiang) Co., Ltd. It will support customers’ increasing demand. The plant complements BASF’s existing Asian production facilities in Shanghai, China and Ulsan, Korea. BASF also produces PolyTHF in Geismar, Louisiana, and Ludwigshafen, Germany, with a global annual PolyTHF capacity of 350,000 metric tons.


June 24, 2024  

BASF decides against investment in nickel-cobalt refining complex in Indonesia

Today, BASF announced that the company will not further evaluate a potential investment in a nickel-cobalt refining complex in Weda Bay, Indonesia. In 2020, BASF and Eramet, a global mining and metallurgical group, signed an agreement to jointly assess the potential of such a project.

“After a thorough evaluation, we have concluded that we will not execute the nickel-cobalt refining project in Weda Bay. Since the inception of the project, the global nickel market has changed significantly. In particular, the supply options have evolved and with that BASF’s availability of battery grade nickel. Consequently, BASF no longer sees the need to make such a substantial investment to ensure a resilient metals supply for its battery materials business,” explained Anup Kothari, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE. The company will stop all ongoing evaluation and negotiation activities for the project in Weda Bay.

“A secure, responsible and sustainable supply of critical raw materials for the production of precursor cathode active materials, which may also originate from Indonesia, remains crucial for the future development of our battery materials business,” said Dr. Daniel Schönfelder, President of BASF’s Catalysts division. BASF’s battery materials business operates a dedicated sourcing team, which focuses on metals and precursor management as well as trading and has already developed a robust network of partners to ensure a resilient supply of critical raw materials necessary for its growing global cathode active materials business.

エラメットとBASF、EV向けニッケルの精製工場をインドネシアに開設へ

仏エラメット(資源)と独BASF(化学)がインドネシアにおけるニッケル及びコバルト精製プロジェクトに22億-26億ドルを投資する。ダボス会議の際にインドネシアの投資相が明らかにした。

エラメットがWeda Bay鉱山で産出した鉱石を精製する新鋭工場を建設する。最終投資決定に向けた詰めの段階にあるといい、6月末までに決定が下る見通しだという。エラメットはこれについて、発表済みの日程でプロジェクトを進めるべく順調に準備が進んでいるとコメントした。

エラメットは去る7月の時点でこのプロジェクトを発表。EV用バッテリーに適格の品質のニッケル及びコバルトを、2026年から生産開始する計画で、ニッケルは約6万7000トン、コバルトは約7000トンの生産を予定する。現在はステンレスの製造のみに用いている鉱石から高品質のニッケル及びコバルトを精製するため、HPAL技術(高圧硫酸浸出法)を導入した新鋭工場を建設する。