BASF will close some chemical production at its Ludwigshafen site

 It is reported that BASF will stop production of adipic acid, cyclododecanone (CDon) and cyclopentanone (CPon) at its integrated site in Ludwittshafen, Germany. The CDon and CPon production plants will be closed in the first half of 2025, and the remaining adipic acid production at the Ludwickhamn integration site will be closed in 2025. The company has taken this decision as part of an ongoing strategic review of the production structure at its Ludwigshafen integrated site to ensure that it remains competitive in changing market conditions.

The capacity for adipic acid has been reduced as part of the restructuring of the Ludwidshafen integrated site announced in February 2023. The remaining adipic acid production portion continues to ensure the supply of raw materials for the production of CDon and CPon. BASF will stop the delivery of CDon and CPon in close coordination with its customers.

The closure will affect about 180 employees. BASF will help the affected employees find new employment opportunities within the company.

Dr. Stephan Kothrade, Member of the Executive Board and Chief Technology Officer of BASF, explained: "BASF has taken this step in order to ensure the profitability of the integrated value chain by adapting its production structure to changing market conditions. We will be in close contact with our customers to minimise the impact of the closure. We will continue to produce adipic acid in Onsan, Korea, as well as in our joint venture in Chalampe, France."

Dr. Katja Scharpwinkel, Member of the Executive Board of BASF, Director of Industrial Relations and Director of Ludwyshafen Site, said: "These closures are part of a long-term goal to transform the Ludwyshafen site. We support the affected colleagues in quickly finding new opportunities at BASF."

CDon is the main raw material for the production of dodecacolactam, which can be used to produce the high-performance plastic polyamide 12 (PA12). CDon is also used to synthesize musk fragrances and UV stabilizers. CPon is used as a raw material for synthetic crop protectants and active pharmaceutical ingredients, as a solvent in semiconductor manufacturing, and as an ingredient in the production of specialty flavors. Adipic acid is used in the production of polyamides, polyurethanes, coatings and adhesives.