BASF invests in silicate-based specialty chemicals business

Düsseldorf-Holthausen –  BASF is investing a mid-range double-digit euro million sum in the modernization of its silica plant at the Düsseldorf-Holthausen site. The investment is earmarked for the modernization and improvement of existing facilities over the next ten years.

“We want to continue serving our customers with high-value silicates and support them in their growth through a further improvement in supply security. This investment also helps to meet the rising demand for silicates and strengthens our leadership in Western European markets,” said Soeren Hildebrandt, Senior Vice President, Home Care, I&I and Industrial Formulators Europe, BASF.

The silica plant in Düsseldorf-Holthausen is one of the world's largest. Silicates are produced by fusing sand and soda and have a wide range of applications, including in the manufacture of precipitated silica for use in tire making, as thickeners in mortars and plasters, in foundry molds and mineral paints, as surface sealants in the construction industry, in detergents and cleaning agents, for material impregnation and in fire retardant applications.