BASF PETRONAS Chemicals opens second 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid production line!

BASF PETRONAS Chemicals (BPC) celebrates the opening of its second 2-Ethylhexanoic Acid (2-EHAcid) production line at its integrated facility in Kuantan, Malaysia. This expansion directly addresses the rapidly growing demand for high-quality 2-EHAcid and reaffirms BASF PETRONAS Chemicals’ commitment to serving its valued regional customers.

Since its inception in 2016, the 2-EHAcid plant has played an important role in supporting growth in the Southeast Asia region. The second production line broke ground in the first quarter of 2023. Fully operational by the third quarter of 2024, the new line will double annual production capacity to 60,000 metric tons, further solidifying BASF PETRONAS Chemicals’ determination to drive innovation and meet the evolving needs of its global customers.

"This expansion is an important step in our commitment to profitable growth and value creation. As part of our new strategy, we are committed to expanding the presence of our core businesses in high-growth Asian markets and ensuring that we meet the growing needs of our customers with high-quality products," said Stephan Kothrade, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and Chief Technology Officer.

"This expansion enables us to better meet the rapidly growing demand for high-quality 2-ethylhexanoic acid in Asia Pacific. By increasing our capacity, we are enhancing our responsiveness to customer needs and strengthening our position as a leading supplier in the market. We are committed to achieving our vision of becoming the preferred partner for sustainable intermediates," said Michael Becker, Senior Vice President, Intermediates, Asia Pacific, BASF.

"This successful expansion marks the continued strengthening of our partnership and our shared commitment to growth and collaboration. We are excited about the future of this plant as the increased capacity will put BASF PETRONAS Chemicals in a strategic position to take advantage of growth opportunities in the region. As demand for our products continues to grow, we are well positioned to meet this demand efficiently and effectively, ensuring that our customers receive the best quality products on time," said Mazuin Ismail, Managing Director, Petronas Chemicals Group Berhad and Chairman of BASF PETRONAS Chemicals.

2-Ethylhexanoic acid is a chemical intermediate used as a compound in the production of synthetic lubricants and oil additives. It is also used in functional fluids such as automotive coolants, metal salts of paint driers, plasticizers, stabilizers, catalysts, and other applications in various industries.