BASF's superabsorbent polymer production capacity upgrade is completed with an investment of US$19.2 million!

BASF's petrochemical division has completed the upgrade of its superabsorbent polymer (SAP) plant in Freeport, Texas, with an investment of US$19.2 million to date.

The upgrade project, which will start in 2023, involves installing new equipment to increase productivity and optimize existing processes at the Freeport superabsorbent polymer plant. The project also improves rail logistics capabilities, thereby reducing truck transportation and lowering the carbon footprint associated with customer deliveries.

"These production process improvements will help improve the expansion rate and overall absorption performance of superabsorbent polymers, allowing customers to provide consumers with thinner, more reliable diapers and other hygiene products," said Momin Birjis, superabsorbent polymer production manager at BASF's Freeport plant.

The combination of new equipment and upgraded processes increases the ability to produce higher-performing superabsorbent polymers while achieving higher throughput and further improving overall expected asset reliability.

“This investment demonstrates BASF’s long-term commitment to the North American hygiene market and our position as a leading and reliable supplier of superabsorbent polymers in the region,” said Shawn Wick, BASF’s business director for superabsorbent polymers in North America.