BASF invests in intelligent chemistry for mining in Australia

5 December 2011 – PERTH, AUSTRALIA – BASF has signed a long-term agreement with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) to lease laboratory and office space at the Australian Minerals Research Centre in Perth. Starting in January 2012, BASF will build a global R&D and technology centre, employing six researchers and developers by the end of 2012.

In first projects, scientists will be studying mineral processing specific innovation needs such as advanced rheology modifiers for the improvement of the thickening process for valuables and tailings or modification of the crystallization process in alumina production.

BASF also agreed to sponsor research undertaken by the Parker Centre starting from July 2012. For five years, BASF will make a substantial financial contribution to participate in collaborative research in the areas of breakthrough technologies and process fundamentals primarily focused on alumina, base metals (particularly cobalt, copper, nickel and zinc), gold and uranium.

“Mining has become a central focus for BASF globally, and particularly in Australia and New Zealand,” said Neil Fitzmaurice, Head of the recently established Asia Pacific Industry Target Group Mining. “We have built relationships with leading mining houses and industryrecognized academia, a sound market understanding, an attractive portfolio and the capability to translate market needs into chemical solutions. Our Asia Pacific Industry Target Group Mining looks to develop an even more comprehensive offering with the overall portfolio of BASF, also for market segments beyond mineral processing, metal production and construction. In this way we want to continue to provide major operational, environmental and economic benefits for the mining industry.”

About BASF Mining Chemicals
BASF Mining Chemicals offers an extensive range of mineral processing reagents. BASF is a global business and currently the strengths are in solid/liquid separation and solvent extraction; however we also offer reagents for flotation, dispersing, agglomerating and others. Our products are marketed worldwide. Further information can be found at: www.basf.com/miningchemicals.

About BASF
BASF is the world’s leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products and agricultural products to oil and gas. As a reliable partner BASF creates chemistry to help its customers in virtually all industries to be more successful. With its high-value products and intelligent solutions, BASF plays an important role in finding answers to global challenges such as climate protection, energy efficiency, nutrition and mobility. BASF posted sales of about €63.9 billion in 2010 and had approximately 109,000 employees as of the end of the year. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com or in its Social Media Newsroom at newsroom.basf.com.