In a significant stride towards innovation and commitment to the hygiene industry, BASF has unveiled its Superabsorbents Excellence Centre in Antwerp, Belgium, backed by a substantial €25 million investment. This remarkable endeavor underscores BASF’s dedication to the hygiene sector and its acrylic value chain.
Supported by a €1.4 million grant from the Flemish government, this cutting-edge process technology platform aims to revolutionize the superabsorbent polymer industry. BASF’s state-of-the-art pilot plant is now operational at its Verbund site in Antwerp and is equipped with the latest data collection and sensor technology. By embracing digitalization and advanced modeling, the technology promises to elevate product performance to new heights.
Moreover, the proximity of this pilot plant to BASF’s existing superabsorbent production in Antwerp is set to significantly reduce time-to-market, which is a noteworthy advantage in the fast-paced world of innovation.
Marco Altmayer, Senior Vice President of Global Strategic Business Development Petrochemicals, emphasized the significance of this investment, stating, “This investment in a Superabsorbents Excellence Centre in Antwerp highlights our commitment to innovation for the hygiene industry. With the pilot plant, we want to provide new impulses to our customers and strengthen our leading role in the global Superabsorbents market.”
The inauguration of the Superabsorbents Excellence Centre is not only a milestone in innovation but also a testament to BASF’s commitment to its Verbund site in Antwerp. The Flemish government’s recognition of the excellence centre’s innovative character is evident through the substantial €1.4 million in funding granted to support this groundbreaking process technology platform.
Jan Remeysen, CEO of BASF Antwerpen NV, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “The Superabsorbents Excellence Centre is an investment in the future. We are pleased to play a big role in the production and development of Superabsorbents as a center of expertise and innovation. In addition, we appreciate the recognition and funding by the Flemish government.”
BASF’s Superabsorbents Excellence Centre not only marks a significant leap in technology but also exemplifies the company’s dedication to driving innovation in the hygiene industry. With its advanced pilot plant and strong governmental support, BASF is poised to make lasting contributions to the superabsorbent polymer market.