BASF to Invest in Acrylic Acid Complex in Brazil
Camaçari, Brazil - BASF announced plans to invest in a world-scale production site for acrylic acid, butyl acrylate and superabsorbent polymers (SAP) in Camaçari, Bahia, Brazil. It will be the first acrylic acid and superabsorbents plant in South America. With an investment volume of more than EUR 500 million, it is the largest investment in BASF’s century-long history in South America.
In addition, BASF will start to produce 2-ethyl-hexyl acrylate, an important raw material for the adhesives and special coatings industries, in its existing chemical complex in Guaratinguetá, São Paulo, Brazil. This will be the first plant for this product in South America.
With the new acrylic acid complex, BASF aims to ensure the supply for important products such as superabsorbents for diapers, acrylic resins for coatings, textiles and adhesives and products for civil construction.
“BASF is the global and regional leader in the acrylic value chain. Due to the strong growth in Brazil, the time has come for this important investment. It will further strengthen our position and underlines our confidence in the development of the South American market,” said Dr. Stefan Marcinowski, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE.
The Camaçari location was chosen based on the availability of raw materials (propylene) and utilities provided by Braskem S.A., the major chemical company in Brazil and the strategic supplier for BASF in this project.
Construction of the new acrylic acid complex will start in 2011, employing about 1,000 individuals during construction. Production is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2014, generating 230 direct and 600 indirect jobs. The production for 2-ethyl-hexyl acrylate in Guaratinguetá is expected to start in 2015 on the basis of acrylic acid produced in Camaçari.