BASF invests in alcoholates plant in Ludwigshafen for global supply

BASF is investing a mid-double-digit million-euro sum to construct a new alcoholates plant at its Ludwigshafen site in Germany, strengthening its position as a reliable supplier for both European and global markets. The plant will produce sodium methylate and potassium methylate, essential chemicals used in biodiesel production and pharmaceutical and agricultural applications. Using state-of-the-art technology, the facility will replace the existing production unit and is expected to commence operations in the second half of 2027.

“This investment is another proof of BASF’s strong commitment to its Ludwigshafen site,” said Dr. Katja Scharpwinkel, member of the Board of Executive Directors and director of the Ludwigshafen site. “By building advanced production facilities, we are driving the transformation of the site and enhancing our competitiveness in a global market environment.”

“Various industries in Europe and around the globe rely on the high-quality alcoholates we produce in Ludwigshafen,” said Dr. Ramkumar Dhruva, president of the Monomers division at BASF. “We are investing in an efficient, Verbund- integrated and future-oriented production process because it is our priority to remain a reliable supplier of alcoholates to our customers in the future.”

This new facility complements BASF’s recent expansion of its sodium methylate production plant in Guaratinguetá, Brazil. Alcoholates produced at the Ludwigshafen site are crucial as catalysts and reactants across industries, supporting the growing demand for life science products and biodiesel.