BASF has commenced operations at its new world-scale hexamethylenediamine (HMD) production facility in Chalampé, France, marking a key milestone in the company’s long-term strategy to expand its presence in the European chemical market. Construction of the plant, which began in 2022, is now complete. With the facility fully operational, BASF has increased its annual global production capacity of HMD to 260,000 metric tons.
BASF has commenced operations at its new world-scale hexamethylenediamine (HMD) production facility in Chalampé, France, marking a key milestone in the company’s long-term strategy to expand its presence in the European chemical market. Construction of the plant, which began in 2022, is now complete. With the facility fully operational, BASF has increased its annual global production capacity of HMD to 260,000 metric tons.
“This investment underlines BASF’s strong commitment to maintaining a robust chemical production footprint in Europe and our determination to support regional growth,” said Dr. Stephan Kothrade, member of the Board of Executive Directors at BASF. “It is a tangible example of how we are implementing our ‘Winning Ways’ strategy to drive sustainable growth and secure long-term competitiveness amid global economic uncertainty.”
The new HMD facility is an integral component of BASF’s broader plan to strengthen its polyamide 6.6 (PA 6.6) value chain in Europe. In addition to the Chalampé development, the company is also in the final phase of expanding its PA 6.6 polymerization capacity at its Freiburg site in Germany. These investments aim to enhance BASF’s ability to serve customers across multiple industries with a reliable supply of high-performance materials.
“The completion of this major investment marks a significant step toward achieving our goal of becoming the leading supplier of HMD and the preferred partner for PA 6.6 in Europe,” said Dr. Ramkumar Dhruva, president of BASF’s Monomers division. “With the new plant in Chalampé and the expanded polymerization in Freiburg, we are optimally positioned to meet the growing demand for high-quality, durable materials used in demanding applications.”
Chalampé’s strategic location in the Alsace region offers several logistical and industrial advantages. The site benefits from direct integration with the production of adiponitrile (ADN), the primary raw material for HMD, creating a highly efficient and reliable supply chain. Additionally, the Chalampé facility includes a state-of-the-art research and development center dedicated to innovation in PA 6.6 applications and formulations.
HMD is a crucial intermediate used primarily in the production of polyamide 6.6 polymers. These materials are valued for their strength, thermal resistance, and durability, making them ideal for use in the automotive industry, as well as in high-performance fibers and coatings.
By expanding its production capabilities and strengthening its innovation infrastructure, BASF is reinforcing its leadership in the European chemical sector. This latest investment not only enhances the company’s supply resilience but also supports the transition toward more sustainable and locally sourced chemical solutions.
