BASF officially launched a new, high-performance dispersant production line in Nanjing, China, utilizing state-of-the-art Controlled Free Radical Polymerization (CFRP) technology.
BASF, the world’s leading chemical company, has announced the official commissioning of its new high-performance dispersant production line at the Jiangbei New Material Technology Park in Nanjing. This significant investment marks a pivotal step in localizing the production of its most advanced dispersants, which are manufactured using Controlled Free Radical Polymerization (CFRP) technology.
The new Nanjing facility is poised to become a critical supply hub, complementing BASF's existing dispersant production site in Heerenveen, the Netherlands. This capacity increase will substantially improve global supply reliability and flexibility, allowing BASF to respond more swiftly to the dynamic market conditions in Asia.
Dr. Stephan Kothrade, a member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and Chief Technology Officer, underscored the strategic importance of the launch. “This new plant will establish a stable local supply to support fast-growing market demand in the industrial coatings and automotive sectors,” he stated. Dr. Kothrade also highlighted the technology’s role in sustainability: “With our advanced CFRP technology for dispersants and state-of-the-art production processes, the plant will enable the green transformation of our customers in Asia with lower PCF (Product Carbon Footprint) products.”
High-performance dispersants are indispensable components in formulations for coatings, inks, and composites. Their primary function is to enhance pigment dispersion, color performance, and overall system stability. The superior performance enabled by the CFRP technology is particularly critical for high-end markets that require a broader color gamut and enhanced product durability.
Gops Pillay, President of the Global Operating Division at BASF, emphasized the customer-centric nature of the investment. “Strong partnerships define our business. By expanding CFRP production in Nanjing, together with supply from the Heerenveen site. we can respond faster and provide the flexibility that our customers need to thrive in a dynamic market,” he commented.
Sylvain Huguenard, Vice President of Global Additives Business Management, added that the introduction of CFRP technology in Nanjing reinforces the company’s competitive edge. "By delivering advanced dispersant solutions, we empower customers to lead in performance,” he said.
The Nanjing site has been a key specialty chemical production base for China and the Asia Pacific region since 2007. This latest expansion, which coincides with BASF’s 140th anniversary in China, not only boosts the company’s market competitiveness and innovation but also solidifies its long-term commitment to innovation and sustainable industry development in the region.
