Materials News

Malaysian jv to produce super-absorbent polymers

"With this investment in high-growth specialty chemicals, we will position ourselves even better to serve our customers in Asia," said Dr. Martin Brudermüller, Member of the Board of Executive Directors, BASF SE, responsible for Asia Pacific.

The joint venture company was founded by BASF and Petronas in 1997, with 60% held by BASF and 40% by Petronas with a total investment of about RM3.4 billion for producing acrylic monomers, oxo Products and butanediol. The company currently operates an integrated complex situated at the Gebeng Industrial Zone, Pahang.

Super-absorbent polymers are materials with the ability to absorb and retain large volumes of water and aqueous solutions. They are made from partially neutralised, lightly crosslinked poly acrylic acid and are the key ingredients in disposable diapers, feminine hygiene and adult incontinence products. They are also used in cable insulation, potting soils and professional compost mixes, food packaging and medical waste disposal.