BASF's Zhanjiang Plant Steam Cracking Unit Commences Operation

BASF has completed commissioning of its steam cracking unit at its integrated plant in Zhanjiang, South China, as planned. Notably, this unit is the world's first to be powered entirely by 100% renewable energy electricity (electric drive) for its main compressor.

As the core of the integrated production system, the steam cracking unit supplies ethylene, propylene, and other essential basic chemicals to multiple plants within the plant area. It is the starting point for many chemical value chains: long-chain hydrocarbons such as naphtha and butane are cracked under the action of steam. The annual ethylene production capacity reaches one million tons.

"This significant milestone at the Zhanjiang integrated plant significantly enhances BASF's diversified value chain in China and enables us to better support customers across various industries," said Dr. Stephen Cotterard, Managing Director and Chief Technology Officer of BASF AG.

Furthermore, following the recent successful commissioning of several downstream propylene units, BASF has safely commissioned ethylene oxide, ethylene glycol, and polyethylene units. The Zhanjiang plant will become BASF's third largest integrated production base globally, following Ludwigshafen and Antwerp, and will serve as a model for sustainable production for BASF in China and worldwide. For example, the plant will use 100% renewable energy. Products from BASF's integrated production base in Zhanjiang will primarily supply the Chinese market—the world's largest and fastest-growing chemical market.