LANXESS Expands Maleic Anhydride Production Capacity in Texas

LANXESS Corporation announced that its Basic Chemicals Business Unit plans to increase the rated annual capacity of its Baytown, Texas, maleic anhydride production unit from 120 million pounds to 160 million pounds by the end of 2006.

LANXESS is moving quickly to respond to growing demand for maleic anhydride," said Frank Lueckgen, head of the U.S. business unit. "By maximizing the performance of our existing plant through a production increase of around 33 percent, we are reaffirming our position as a leading manufacturer of chemical intermediates."

"Preparations have been under way for some time, and the project is progressing according to plan with the aim of having the first additional quantities available in the first quarter of 2006 and the full 40 million pounds per year on stream by the end of 2006," Lueckgen said.

Maleic anhydride is a chemical intermediate with many uses. It is an important building block in the manufacture of polyester and alkyd resins. These resins are added to fiberglass-reinforced plastics to make a strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant material that is found in boats, autos, trucks, pipelines, and electrical goods. Maleic anhydride is also be used in agricultural chemicals, resins, dye intermediates, and pharmaceuticals.

"The expansion of the maleic anhydride unit aligns with the LANXESS strategy of achieving sustainable, profitable growth through focused investment. It also emphasizes the importance that the chemical intermediates market holds for our company," Lueckgen said. "With our portfolio of high-quality products and comprehensive services, LANXESS aims to ensure that our customers will be poised to meet the demand of the global market now and in the future."