BASF to invest $625 mn for enhancing superabsorbent capacities

BASF has announced plans for a major investment in a pioneering superabsorbent technology platform of its hygiene business. German chemical company will invest up to Euro 500 million ($ 625 million) over the next 2 to 3 years to establish droplet polymerisation capacities worldwide by revamping existing plants.
 
Superabsorbent polymers are polymers that can absorb and retain extremely large amounts of liquid relative to their own mass. They are used as a main component in baby diapers, incontinence products and feminine hygiene products. BASF researchers have worked intensively in the last decade to develop a new technology and optimise the corresponding production processes. BASF will launch a new generation of highly innovative superabsorbent polymers under the trademark Savivatm. The launch is scheduled sequentially, starting end of 2016.
 
The first wave of revamping existing plants will be kicked off in Europe, closely followed by plants in Asia and the Americas. This underlines the business approach BASF is taking, investing close to its customers and providing a global footprint for a reliable, global supply.
 
With a global network of research, production and service sites and an annual superabsorbent polymers production capacity of 590,000 metric tons, BASF is a leading partner of the global hygiene industry.