BASF extends its leading position in the worldwide polyisobutene sector

BASF is extending its position as the world’s leading manufacturer of low, medium and high molecular weight polyisobutene (PIB). The main focus of this activity is on increasing capacity for the production of medium molecular weight polyisobutene, which is marketed by BASF under the trade name Oppanol®. BASF will gradually increase the capacity of its Oppanol® plant in Ludwigshafen (Germany) by 20 percent. Work began on extending production eighteen months ago, and it is expected to be completed by the end of 2004. Further investment in Oppanol® is planned, and new, more efficient technologies for manufacturing this range of products are being developed.

BASF manufactures a wide range of polyisobutenes in four plants at its Antwerp (Belgium) and Ludwigshafen (Germany) sites. These plants produce a total of 100 000 tons/year of polyisobutene, and production is running at full capacity. All four plants are completely integrated in the production network at the two largest BASF production sites. “We are reacting to the increasing demand for PIB on the world market, so that we can fulfil the requirements of our customers”, said Dr. Ulrich Eichenauer of BASF’s Performance Chemicals division, who is responsible for the strategic marketing and development of PIB products. “We are also acting to ensure our long-term competitiveness in a market that has undergone substantial consolidation in recent years”.

BASF supplies polyisobutene for many different applications ranging from fuel and lubricant additives, industrial lubricants, two-stroke engine fuel, adhesives and sealants through to plastics and chewing gum.