BASF has begun its first production of diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) at its wholly-owned site in Chongqing, China. Production will be ramped up gradually in line with market demand.

In 2011 BASF had received approval from the National Development and Reform Commission for the 400,000 metric tons per year MDI project in Chongqing. The investment of this project totals RMB 8 billion (€860 million). This project covers an area of more than 50 hectares, including facilities of 400,000 t/a nitrobenzene, 300,000 t/a aniline, 400,000 t/a crude MDI, and 400,000 t/a MDI splitter.

MDI is an important component for polyurethanes – an extremely versatile plastics material that contributes towards improved insulation, provides lighter materials for cars, and helps save energy in buildings.

• BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany