BASF SE (Ludwigshafen, Germany; www.basf.com) is planning to start production of Palatinol DOTP (diethylhexyl terephthalate) in North America in 2017 by investing in dedicated production facilities in Pasadena, Tex. The project will help meet the growing demand for non-ortho-phthalate plasticizers in North America.
BASF will convert production from its current general-purpose plasticizer, Palatinol DPHP (dipropyl heptyl phthalate) and DINP (di-isononyl phthalate), to Palatinol DOTP at the facility. Palatinol DOTP, a terephthalate, is an alternative to traditional ortho-phthalates that is used in many general purpose applications. With Palatinol DOTP in its portfolio BASF will be able to serve regional customers according to market dynamics in North America, while continuing to ensure the availability of consistently high quality plasticizers.
BASF will convert 2-PH (2-propylheptanol) production to 2-EH (2-ethylhexanol) to generate reliable raw material integration for Palatinol DOTP. BASF will continue to market DPHP and DINP in North America, importing both products from its global production network. In addition, BASF will discontinue the manufacture of phthalic anhydride molten at the facility. Conversion is planned to begin this year, and startup of Palatinol DOTP is set for early 2017.
“By adding Palatinol DOTP to our current range of plasticizers in North America, BASF will be better positioned to meet our customers’ current and future needs,” said Heidi Alderman, Senior Vice President, Petrochemicals North America. “Production at our Pasadena, Texas facility will position BASF as a valued supplier and reliable partner for plasticizers in North America.”