BASF's new isopropanolamine plant started up
New plant improves flexibility
BASF has started up a new production facility for isopropanolamines (IPOA) at its Ludwigshafen site. With an annual capacity of 15,000 metric tons, this is the sole dedicated facility of this type in Europe. It replaces the existing multi-product facility used to date to produce isopropanolamines. By expanding its capacity the company responds to the growing demand for these versatile intermediates.
The new plant uses an improved process: A product mixture comprising mono-, di- and triisopropanolamine (MIPOA, DIPOA, TIPOA) is produced from propylene oxide and ammonia. The new process ensures better control over the composition of this mixture, enabling BASF to respond more flexibly to its customers' needs.
Isopropanolamines are high-grade intermediates that are suitable for many different applications. They are used effectively in gas scrubbing and in the production of cement additives, colorants and pigments, surfactants, pharmaceuticals and crop protection agents, in corrosion inhibitors and lubricants.
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