BASF Opens ACM Production Plant in China

BASF has inaugurated a state-of-the-art production facility for biocatalyzed acrylamide in the chemical industry park in Nanjing, China. By investing in its own bio-ACM plant in Nanjing, BASF is strengthening its production network for its customers in Asia-Pacific.

The plant has an annual capacity of more than 50,000 t biocatalyzed acrylamide. Acrylamide is used in the production of water-soluble flocculants for the more efficient and resource-efficient waste water treatment and paper production as well as for ore processing and tertiary oil production. With the plant, BASF wants to strengthen its position as a supplier in this region and secure the competitive supply of the increasing demand from the water-intensive industrial sectors.

Three plants for the world market

Since 2014 BASF has been producing biocatalyzed acrylamide in the USA in Suffolk, Virginia. In Europe, the company launched a bio-ACM plant in Bradford, England, in 2016. With its launch in China, BASF now operates three production plants in the key markets worldwide.

"The completion of the Bio-ACM plant in Nanjing is an important milestone. A new polyacrylamide production line is currently under construction and is due to start operation in 2018. With investments in upstream and downstream plants, we are strengthening our position as a leading partner for the paper and water treatment industry, "said Andreas Türk, Senior Vice President of Paper and Water Chemicals at BASF.

In the production process, less waste is generated than in conventional energy-intensive copper catalysis. The reaction takes place at room temperature and normal pressure, thus saving energy with greater environmental compatibility. In addition, fewer byproducts are produced.