BASF is to increase global alkyl polyglucosides (APGs) production capacity with expansion at sites in Bangpakong, Thailand and Cincinnati, Ohio.
The additional capacity is expected to come on stream in 2025.
APGs are bio-based and readily biodegradable, mild secondary surfactants, derived from 100% natural and renewable feedstocks, and are widely used in different applications within personal care and other industries.
Besides their sustainable and superior performance profile, the non-ionic nature of APGs makes the formulation with other surfactants versatile.
The investment to expand regional production capacities in Asia and North America is triggered by a growing global demand and complements the existing facilities.
BASF says by expanding in two regions in parallel, it will strengthen its position and serve customers even faster and more flexible from the regional supply points, while reducing cross-regional volume flows.
“With this investment, we will solidify our position as a leading supplier of APGs in all relevant industries”, said Mary Kurian, BASF Care Chemicals president.
“Both our customers and consumers around the world are aware of the importance of sustainable formulations. This expansion will enable the future of bio-based and biodegradable surfactants worldwide by offering diverse applications for personal care and home care, as well as industrial and institutional cleaning and industrial formulations.”
BASF currently produces APGs in Cincinnati, Dusseldorf, Germany and Jinshan, China.
Agus Ciputra, BASF Care Chemicals Asia-Pacific senior vice-president, said: “The Bangpakong site in Thailand is an important production hub for BASF in Asia already.
“This new APG line, together with our existing APG plant in Jinshan, China, will enable short delivery times and business continuity for our customers to support the growth and the increasing consumer demand for bio-based surfactants across the continent."
