BASF Withdraws TDI Materials in Europe, Detects Quality Fluctuation

BASF SE has detected quality fluctuations in the production of TDI in Ludwigshafen. Deliveries of TDI from Ludwigshafen produced between August 25 and September 29, 2017, contain a significantly higher concentration of dichlorobenzene. This is due to a technical defect in the production, the cause is currently being eliminated.

BASF has informed about 50 affected customers and stopped delivering the product. None of the affected material has been delivered to Asia. The quality fluctuation does not affect any production plants in Asia, and no related issues have been detected.

Of the 7,500 tonnes of TDI, which have a higher dichlorobenzene value, about two-thirds are not yet further processed and are being withdrawn by BASF.

BASF is in close contact with its customers for already processed products. A team of around 75 specialists, for example, assists customers in testing DCB concentrations to avoid any hazard.

The following measures have been implemented by BASF:

The company is withdrawing unprocessed TDI as well as unprocessed foam blocks. This is expected to be completed by the end of next week. For already processed product quantities, BASF supports its customers to perform tests to ensure that the specific limits of the different industries are met.

Dichlorobenzene is an organic compound. The colourless liquid is toxic to aquatic life and persistent. Dichlorobenzene can cause irritation of the skin, the eyes and the Respiratory Tract and sensitization of the skin and is suspected of being carcinogenic.

TDI (Toluene diisocyanate) is a core component for polyurethanes. It is mainly used in the furniture industry (elastic foams for mattresses, cushions or wood coating) and the automotive industry (seat cushions).