2005/4/26 BASF

BASF to sell U.S., Canadian polystyrene business to INEOS Americas, LLC
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=1812&id=atOt_6iGpbcp3ds

Divestiture to include Joliet, Ill., facility
Sale is part of ongoing NAFTA restructuring program
Transfer of approximately 140 employees to INEOS

BASF announced today that it is selling its polystyrene business in the United States and Canada, including its Joliet, Ill., production facility, to INEOS Americas, LLC, the North American subsidiary of INEOS, an international chemical company headquartered in Lyndhurst, United Kingdom.

The sale of the polystyrene business is part of BASF's successful implementation of its North American restructuring program.

The transaction requires approval by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Financial details were not disclosed. Morgan Stanley acted as financial advisor to BASF in this transaction.

As part of the agreement, BASF will transfer approximately 140 employees to INEOS. The Joliet polystyrene facility has a total capacity of approximately 385,000 metric tons per year and produces general-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) and high-impact polystyrene (HIPS).

"The Joliet site is no longer consistent with BASF's site integration strategy," said Fred Baumgartner, Global President of Styrenics for BASF. "While we are committed to our remaining styrenics portfolio in North America, the sale of this business is another major step in our process of realigning the global styrenics business to ensure long-term profitable growth," Baumgartner added.

BASF also remains committed to the polystyrene business on a global scale, and will continue to manufacture and sell polystyrene in other regions. BASF is the second-leading supplier of polystyrene in the world, and was the fourth largest producer of polystyrene in the United States and Canada. The company has sold polystyrene in the region continuously since 1992, when the company purchased the Joliet facility from Mobil Chemical.

"INEOS continues to seek acquisition opportunities in the chemical and polymer business, typically from major chemical corporations which combine excellent people, assets and market positions," said Andy Currie, Director at INEOS Capital Ltd. "The BASF U.S. and Canadian polystyrene business, which includes the second largest U.S. facility at Joliet, Ill., meets all of these criteria and we look forward to welcoming the employees to INEOS."

INEOS is a rapidly growing global manufacturer of specialty and intermediate chemicals and polymers. It comprises seven businesses, each with a major chemical company heritage, and its production network includes 43 manufacturing facilities in 14 countries throughout the world. In 2004, INEOS had approximately 7,000 employees and sales of more than $7 billion.

2005/4/26 BASF

BASF increases capacity for biodegradable plastic Ecoflex®
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=1809&id=atOt_6iGpbcp3ds

BASF starts up a new plant for its biodegradable plastic Ecoflex®

BASF will start up in early 2006 a new plant for the production of its biodegradable plastic Ecoflex® at its Schwarzheide site in Germany, thus almost doubling its capacity for this product. The new plant will have a total capacity of 6,000 metric tons a year, and complements the 8,000 metric ton plant in Ludwigshafen. Ecoflex is a specialty plastic, which belongs to BASF's Styrene Plastics operating division.

"The world market for biodegradable materials is developing very dynamically. With this signficant increase in capacity, we are participating in this market growth, and are securing the supply of material for our customers in the future," said Dietmar Heufel, head of Global Business Management Ecoflex. Due to the recently passed amendment to the German packaging ordinance, BASF expects activity in the domestic market to pick up.

Ecoflex, a biodegradable copolyester, is employed nowadays primarily in blend formulations. These are mixtures of renewable raw materials such as: starch, cellulose or polylactic acid, together with a biodegradable, synthetic polymer such as Ecoflex. Its areas of application include shopping bags, bags for organic garbage, mulching film for agriculture and various types of food packaging.

Note: amendment to the German packaging ordinance
Following the amendment to the German packaging ordinance, all certified packaging (packaging that is biodegradable according to DIN EN 13432) will be exempt until 2012 from the DSD recycling fee (DSD - Duales System Deutschland), irrespective of the raw material basis.

2005/8/30 BASF

BASF invests Euro 200 million in expansion of cracker at Antwerp site
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=1948&id=fQlMe7Kwgbcp2Or

BASF will expand the capacity of its naphtha steam cracker at its site in Antwerp, Belgium. The expansion project will be conducted during the next regular turnaround of the plant scheduled for the fall of 2007 to avoid any additional shutdown. The investment of about Euro 200 million will raise ethylene capacity from 800,000 metric tons per year to 1.08 million metric tons per year - making the plant the largest single-train steam cracker in Europe.

"The expansion of our cracker in Antwerp - the starting point for our essential value chains - is an investment with a special strategic importance for BASF," said Dr. Stefan Marcinowski, Board Member at BASF Aktiengesellschaft, responsible for the Chemicals segment.

"We carefully evaluated our internal demand developments and the external market situation for cracker products and came to the conclusion that 2007 is the right time for the expansion," said Dr. Werner Pratorius, President of BASF's Petrochemical division.

"As to our underlying investment strategy, the additional olefins and aromatics volumes from the expansion will be absorbed by existing and future internal demand. As in the past, part of the ethylene output of the cracker will be marketed either directly or preferably via heterogeneous swap arrangements for other chemicals. As no major new cracker projects are foreseen in Europe until at least 2009 and in view of projected average demand growth of 1 to 1.5 percent per year, the additional ethylene volumes will fit into the market," Pratorius added.

The expansion will thus further secure the competitive supply of BASF's internal value chains with the whole range of cracker products. "This expansion will further strengthen the competitive position of the steam cracker and all downstream units that are supplied with cracker products. This project is a major step to further optimize BASF's highly integrated Verbund structure in Antwerp," said John Dejaeger, Managing Director and Chairman of the Executive Committee of BASF Antwerp NV.

Mainly based on naphtha as feedstock, BASF's steam crackers produce a wide range of petrochemical base products, such as ethylene, propylene, butadiene and aromatics. These products are then used as raw materials in numerous downstream plants, where they are converted into intermediates for a vast array of industries and consumer products. Via BASF's value chains, the products from the steam cracker are ultimately used in the automobile and construction industries, as well as in the production of detergents, packaging, household appliances, and numerous other consumer goods.

BASF operates other steam crackers in Ludwigshafen, Germany; Port Arthur, Texas; and Nanjing, China.

2005/9/27 BASF

BASF targets 10 percent of global chemical sales in China by 2010
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=1989&id=SK-QV7UwJbcp2Gv

* Site in Nanjing will make an important contribution to profitable growth in Asia
* Additional EUR1 billion budgeted for Asia until 2009

BASF aims to achieve 10 percent of its global sales and earnings in the chemical business in China by 2010. The importance of the company's activities in China was stressed in a press conference in Nanjing on the day before the opening ceremony of the company's first Verbund site in China. The site is the largest single investment in BASF's 140-year history and an integral part of BASF's strategy in the Asia Pacific region.

"We want to shape the future of Asia with our chemistry," said Dr. Ju"rgen Hambrecht, Chairman of BASF's Board of Executive Directors. "That is why we have built the most modern plants, and use the latest highly integrated processes at our new Verbund site in Nanjing."

Overall, BASF has invested EUR5.6 billion in Asia between 1990 and 2005. To further expand BASF's production network for cost-efficient standard and base chemicals, high-value specialty chemicals and tailor-made systems, BASF plans to invest an additional EUR1 billion until 2009.

"We are convinced that China will remain the growth engine in Asia overall and for the chemical industry in particular," said Dr. Andreas Kreimeyer, member of BASF's Board of Executive Directors responsible for Asia Pacific, "The new Verbund site in Nanjing will make an important contribution toward achieving our ambitious goals in this region."

BASF-YPC Co. Ltd. is a 50-50 joint venture between BASF and SINOPEC. The 220-hectare site produces 1.7 million metric tons of high-quality chemicals and polymers per year for the rapidly growing Chinese market. A total of $2.9 billion has been invested in the construction of the integrated Verbund site. At the height of construction technical experts from 22 countries and 15,000 workers - with a diverse range of occupations and cultures - were on site, working together to build the plants and infrastructure. During the construction phase, more than 100,000 workers received very thorough safety training from BASF.

"Tomorrow, it will be only four years to the day since we broke ground for the new Verbund site here in Nanjing," said Hambrecht. "That we successfully accomplished a project on this scale is due in particular to the tremendous efforts of our employees here, our partner companies, and of course the strong support of the Chinese and German governments. I would like to whole-heartedly thank all those involved for their outstanding work."

The Nanjing site is modeled on the Verbund concept originating from BASF's headquarters in Ludwigshafen, Germany - the world's largest, single-company chemical production complex. By linking manufacturing plants, the company can use products, by-products and energy in the most efficient way, so as to realize cost efficiency and minimize environmental impact. As a result, BASF-YPC Co. Ltd. will make a contribution to the sustainable development of the local economy and the Chinese chemical industry. BASF has, therefore, commissioned the German Society for Technical Cooperation (GTZ) to carry out a study to analyze the economic, environmental, and social effects of its investment in Nanjing.

2005/10/6 BASF

BASF increases capacity for polyisobutene in Ludwigshafen
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=2004&id=e2KYK7X_6bcp*8n

BASF is to increase its production of medium molecular weight polyisobutene (MM PIB), which is marketed worldwide under the Oppanol(R) trademark. It will increase capacity for MM Oppanol(R) at its Ludwigshafen, Germany, site by 6 000 tonnes to a total of 18 000 tonnes per year. Work on extending the plant is expected to be completed by the middle of 2007. "BASF will make this investment in response to an increasing demand for Oppanol world-wide, and this will sustain the continuing growth in the market for MM PIB", said Dr. Hartmann Leube, Head of Strategic Marketing and Product Development at Performance Chemicals for Automotive and Oil Industry at BASF.

This increase in production capacity will enhance the position of BASF's comprehensive range of low, medium and high molecular weight grades of polyisobutene. BASF produces PIB in four plants located in Ludwigshafen, Germany, and Antwerp, Belgium, including low molecular weight PIB (Glissopal(R)) and medium and high molecular weight PIB (Oppanol(R)). Both product lines play an important role in a wide variety of applications. These applications range from fuel additives, lubricant additives, industrial lubricants and oil for two-stroke engines through to adhesives, sealants, plastics and chewing gum base.

Performance Chemicals from BASF: Always one idea ahead!
The product range of the BASF Business Unit Performance Chemicals for Automotive and Oil Industry includes engine coolants, brake fluids and other specialized fluids, mineral oil dyes and markers, refinery chemicals, diesel and gasoline additives, low molecular weight polyisobutene (Glissopal(R)) and medium and high molecular weight polyisobutene (Oppanol(R)). Our products are marketed worldwide. We are one of the leading suppliers in these fields. Further information on our products can be found at www.basf.de/kfz-oel and www.glysantin.de.

2005/10/6 BASF

BASF's Strategy for Europe
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=2005&id=e2KYK7X_6bcp*8n

* Growing faster than the market
* Cooperating more closely with customers
* Systematically expanding market position

BASF is raising its European profile in order to be even more successful in a fast and dramatically moving environment. The company presented its new Europe Strategy 2015 at a press conference in Ludwigshafen today. Over the next few years, BASF wants to outperform the market, in this way winning market share, cooperating more closely with its customers, and expanding its market position even more systematically in certain countries.

"BASF's roots are in Europe," said Eggert Voscherau, Vice Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft. "If we look just at the global EBIT of our chemical businesses ? in other words our core business ? Europe has contributed more than half for many years. The majority of BASF's employees work in this region, and in the future we intend to continue to invest around Euro 1 billion per year here, subject to profitability," he continued. It therefore only made sense, Voscherau added, for BASF to plan to expand its business in its home market over the next few years.

According to Voscherau, a focus on enhancing efficiency in all areas will continue to play an important role on the one hand. "Efficiency improvements in production, infrastructure and service alone have resulted in long-term savings of Euro 480 million in Ludwigshafen. A further Euro 250 million in savings comes, for example, from optimizing local structures in Europe. This amounts to a total of Euro 730 million in cost savings per year in Europe over the long term."

On the other hand, BASF plans to place a stronger focus on customers, sectors and countries in order to increase its European sales and significantly outperform the market by 2015. "That means that in certain segments we want to make significant gains in market share", explained Dr. Walter Seufert, President of BASF in Europe. "As a customer-focused company, we want to support our customers' growth and in this way together become even more innovative and more successful in our markets." This support can take place in a wide variety of ways ? from joint research projects and product developments through intelligent logistical solutions to environmental issues ? said Seufert. This cooperative approach aims to give BASF an enormous competitive edge because very few companies are able to offer their customers such a broad service.

At the same time, BASF will bundle its broad expertise more effectively within the company and will focus on offering products and solutions for an entire sector, such as the construction or packaging industry.

In contrast to the low economic growth rate of around 2 to 3 percent in Western Europe, Eastern Europe offers high growth rates and dynamic markets. BASF has already positioned itself well in this region, since it established sales organizations in every Eastern European country several years ago. BASF's major production facilities in central Europe, in Ludwigshafen for example, are so centrally located that the company is able to supply the whole of Europe swiftly and cost effectively. "One thing is clear to us: Without neglecting our traditionally strong Western European market and its opportunities, we want to take advantage of the enormous opportunities for growth in Eastern Europe as best we can. And that's also reflected in our growth target: we want to double our sales in Eastern Europe from Euro 1 billion to Euro 2 billion by 2010," said Seufert.

BASF's strong focus on its operations in its domestic European market is reflected in its investment programs. In the first half of 2005 alone, the company spent close to half a billion euros on plant and equipment in Europe. This was 10 percent more than in the same period of 2004. Examples of capital expenditure projects include the new HPPO plant for the production of propylene oxide and the expansion of steam cracker capacity, both in Antwerp in Belgium.

2005/10/26 BASF

BASF とダウ・ケミカル、プロピレンオキサイドの新生産プロセスを共同開発

・ 2006 年初頭、アントワープBASF 生産拠点にHPPO プロセスのプラントを共同で建設
・ 原料の過酸化水素の供給は、製造プラントをソルベイ社（ベルギー）と共同で建設中
・ 米国とアジアでもHPPO プロセスのプラント建設を検討

　BASF（本社：ドイツ ルートヴィッヒスハーフェン）とザ・ダウ・ケミカル・カンパニー（本社：米国ミシガン州） はこのほど、過酸化水素（HP）を使ってポリウレタン等の原料となるプロピレンオキサイド（PO）を生産するHPPOプロセス（過酸化水素法）と呼ばれる画期的な生産技術を共同で開発しました。この技術の特長は、副産物がなく、最終製品であるPOと水しか発生しないことです。また、プラントの設置面積が小さく、必要インフラストラクチャが少ないなど、従来のPO生産プロセスよりも投資額が大幅に少なくなります。この技術は現在、商業生産が可能なレベルに達しており、ベルギーのアントワープにあるBASFの生産拠点内でプラントを設計中です。建設は2006年初頭に開始し、2008年には稼働予定です。このプラントの完成により、ポリウレタン業界を中心に需要が伸びているPO誘導体を供給する体制がＢＡＳＦ、ダウ両社で強化されます。この新生産施設は当初、年産30万トンを予定しています。
　このPOプラントで使用する過酸化水素は、ソルベイ社との合弁企業により供給を確保します。ソルベイ社が開発した生産性の高い技術を用いて、年産23万トンのシングルトレイン過酸化水素工場を建設する予定です。ソルベイ社は、この高い技術を過酸化水素の生産拠点のすべてで採用しており、これまでに十分な実績を持っています。
　BASFとダウ社は今後、アントワープ以外にもHPPOプロセス（過酸化水素法）によるプラントを建設します。ＢＡＳＦは2009年までに、米国ルイジアナ州のガイスマーにあるBASFの生産拠点にプラントの建設を予定しています。また、アジアでは両社ともに、共同あるいは独自でのプラント建設に向けて意見は一致しており、現在、HPPOプロセスによるプラント建設候補地での計画の実現性について検討を進めています。ＢＡＳＦでは、最初のアジアでのHPPOプロセスによるプラントは、ダウ社と提携して建設を進めたいと考えています。

ご参考：プロピレンオキサイドとは
　ポリウレタンやプロピレングリコール、中間体、難燃剤、合成潤滑剤、油田掘削用化学品、織物用界面活性剤などの生産に使用される化学品です。

■BASF について
　BASF（ビーエーエスエフ）は「ザ･ケミカル･カンパニー（The Chemical Company）」を標語に掲げる世界の化学業界のリーディングカンパニーです。BASF の製品群は、化学品、プラスチック、高機能製品、農薬、ファインケミカルから原油や天然ガスに至るまで多岐にわたります。あらゆる業界のパートナーカンパニーとして信頼されているＢＡＳＦは、高度なソリューションと高品質な製品によって、顧客のさらなる成功をサポートしています。BASF では、新技術の開発とそれらを使用することで、新たな市場を切り開いています。また、経済的な成功と環境保護、社会への責任を融合させることでより良い未来に貢献しています。
　2004 年度は約8 万2,000 人の従業員を雇用し、370 億ユーロ以上の売上高を計上しました。BASF の株式はフランクフルト（BAS）、ロンドン（BFA）、ニューヨーク（BF）、チューリッヒ（AN）の各株式市場において取引されています。同社のインターネットホームページアドレスはwww.basf.com です。BASF ジャパン（株）のインターネットホームページのアドレスはwww.basf-japan.co.jp です。

Platts 2005/11/14

BASF commissions amino resins plant in Shanghai, China

BASF has started commercial production at its new amino resins plant outside Shanghai, China, the company announced Monday. The plant is located at BASF Auxiliary Chemicals Co Ltd in Pudong, Shanghai. Amino resins are produced from urea and formaldehyde, and are used commonly as adhesives for plywood or as durable surface coatings.
"With this production facility we are now much closer to our customers," said Dr Reinhard Leppkes, Group Vice President, Performance Chemicals for Coatings, Plastics and Specialties. Johnny Kwan, Managing Director of BASF Greater China, described BASF's goals for China: "By 2010, BASF aims to maintain or establish a leading position among the five strongest players in relevant markets. We target to achieve 70% of sales from locally produced products."
BASF's amino resins are marketed under the trademark Luwipal. Luwipal 066 is mainly used in coil and can coatings, and Luwipal 072 is mostly for automotive applications.

2005/11/28 BASF

BASF develops biodegradable plastic based on renewable raw materials
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=2071&id=o7JZE7nn6bcp01X

* Ecovio(R) consists of 45 percent polylactic acid obtained from corn 　　ポリ乳酸
* Global launch planned for 2006
* World market for biodegradable plastics expected to grow by more than 20 percent per year

BASF has developed its first biodegradable plastic based on renewable raw materials. The plastic Ecovio（R） consists of 45 percent polylactic acid, a material obtained from corn (maize). The other component is BASF's existing biodegradable plastic Ecoflex(R), which is derived from petrochemicals. BASF plans to start marketing Ecovio(R) in Europe next spring. The product is also to be launched in Asia and North America in 2006.

"The global market for biodegradable plastics is still small, but is growing very rapidly. Ecovio(R) will enable us to further increase our market share in this attractive business," said Dr. Fred Baumgartner, head of BASF's Styrenics division. In the next five years BASF expects the world market for biodegradable plastics to grow by more than 20 percent per year. Even now, the company is one of the world's leading suppliers in this area thanks to Ecoflex(R).

On the one hand, Ecovio(R) can be used to produce flexible films from which biodegradable carrier bags or other packaging can be made. On the other hand, items such as mobile phone housings and yogurt cups can be produced if other components are added to Ecovio(R). Particularly diverse product characteristics and applications are made possible by combining the new plastic with the established biodegradable material EcoflexR.

Biodegradable plastics are completely degraded within a few weeks under compositing conditions and may be produced from either petrochemical or renewable raw materials. In terms of sustainability, Ecovio(R) offers an additional advantage: The polylactic acid used in its manufacture is largely carbon dioxide-neutral when composted.

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エコフレックス―消費者と環境に利益をもたらす革新技術
http://www.basf-japan.co.jp/news/html/021206.html

BASF のエコフレックスは、石油化学品をベースとした完全な生分解性を持つプラスチックです。エコフレックスは、バクテリアや菌などの微生物によって、植物が分解されるのとほぼ同じ速さで、水、二酸化炭素、バイオマスに変換されます。現在、販売されたエコフレックスの約80%が再生可能な原材料の機能改善のために使用されています。このプラスチックは、澱粉や紙から作られる食品用パッケージに耐水性・耐油性を与えることによって汎用性が拡大します。さらにエコフレックスは、農業用シートにも使用されています 。

エコフレックスは、1995 年にプラスチック見本市（K フェア）で初めて発表され、その3 年後に商用販売が開始されました。生分解性プラスチックには数多くの利用用途が考えられていますが、エコフレックスは当初から特殊用途向けに開発されました。この革新的な製品は、消費者や環境に対する利益が最も重要となる分野において、従来の材料を補完します。例えば、BASF は2001 年に生分解性のラップフィルムを初めて開発しました。

ルートヴィッヒスハーフェンでは、現在年間8,000 トンのエコフレックスが生産されています。エコフレックスの販売開始から3年で、BASFは化学合成原料をベースとする生分解性材料の分野で・マーケットリーダーとしての地位を確立しました。2001年に売上は前年比35％増を達成し、今後2桁成長が期待されています。中期的には、生分解性材料の世界市場規模は10万トンを超えるとBASFは予想しています。エコフレックスの成功を受け、スチレン部門は生産能力の拡大を検討しています。

In the production of Ecoflex, the chemists at BASF combine the constituents adipic acidアジピン酸, butanediol and terephthalic acid to form the finished polymer. The length of the molecular chains along with their branchings and interconnections affects the properties of the biodegradable plastic. This variable composition allows Ecoflex to be used as a molecular construction kit for making customized products. Regardless if they are formed as flexible films or sturdy containers, they are always biodegradable. The fact that the constituents are derived from petrochemicals has no effect on the biodegradability.

2005年12月13日　BASFジャパン

BASF、日本の中間体事業を再編
http://www.basf-japan.co.jp/news/html/051213.html

* 日本の中間体事業はスペシャルティ製品に資源を集中
* 三重県四日市事業所でのTHF/PolyTHF(R)生産活動を終了

　BASF（本社：ドイツ　ルートヴィッヒスハーフェン）はこのほど、日本の中間体事業を見直し、医薬品業界やエレクトロニクス業界などをターゲットにしたスペシャルティ製品に資源を集中させます。

　今後は、アジア市場全体に向けてスペシャルティ製品を開発するために、すでに中間体の新規事業開発チームを東京に設置し、日本市場を特に意識した体制を構築しました。BASFは中間体市場としては日本を重要視しており、新設された開発チームは顧客の事業のさらなる発展をサポートします。

　また戦略の見直しの一環として、三重県四日市事業所のTHF/PolyTHF(R)の生産活動を2006年上半期中に終了いたします。このプラントは、主に中国繊維市場向けに製品を供給してきました。四日市事業所にはこのほか、製紙、 熱可塑性ポリウレタン等を生産する設備がありますが、THF/PolyTHF(R)以外の製品の生産活動は今後も継続いたします。

　四日市事業所が日本市場向けに生産していたTHF/PolyTHF(R)は、今後は世界中で展開するBASFの統合生産・経営システム拠点「フェアブント」から、これまで通り日本のお客様に供給を継続いたします。

　今回の生産活動の終了により、約25人の従業員に影響が出る見込みで、社内異動や早期退職制度等を活用し対応いたします。なお、BASFの従業員数は日本全体で1,100人を超えます。

2006/1/3 BASF

BASF Makes All-Cash Proposal To Acquire Engelhard
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=2112&id=E-nDT7zc4bcp0_K

* BASF Intends To Offer US$37.00 Per Share For a Total of US$4.9 Billion
* Acquisition Would Make BASF a Leading Provider in the Global Catalyst Business

BASF Aktiengesellschaft, the world's leading chemical company, has made an all-cash proposal to acquire all outstanding shares of common stock of Engelhard Corporation, Iselin, New Jersey, USA, a Fortune 500 company and leading supplier of goods for catalysis and surface finishing, for US$37.00 per share or an aggregate of US$4.9 billion. This price represents a 23% premium above the December 20, 2005 closing price of Engelhard's stock of US$30.05 and a 30% premium over Engelhard's 90-day average share price (VWAP) of US$28.42 as of December 20, 2005. This price also represents a premium to Engelhard's 2005 year-end closing price of US$30.15 and to the four-year-high closing price of US$32.49 achieved on July 14, 2004.

By acquiring Engelhard, BASF would become a leading provider worldwide in the dynamically growing catalyst market. "Engelhard is an excellent enhancement for the BASF portfolio," said Dr. Jurgen Hambrecht, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft. "By combining the R&D activities of both companies, BASF would create a unique global technology platform for catalysts and open up further growth and innovation potential."

The proposal reflects what BASF believes is an opportunity for significant value for Engelhard's stockholders: a robust premium over Engelhard's current stock price; and a fully financed, all-cash transaction, with no significant regulatory hurdles anticipated based on present knowledge.

"We believe that our all-cash proposal provides a compelling opportunity to achieve significant value for Engelhard's stockholders," said Dr. Hambrecht. "We hope that Engelhard's Board and management will recognize this opportunity as well as the benefits for Engelhard's employees. We look forward to continuing and strengthening business relations with Engelhard's customers."

BASF has made efforts to negotiate a friendly transaction with Engelhard's Board of Directors and management. BASF has said that its team is prepared to meet with the Engelhard team to see whether Engelhard can demonstrate value in addition to that discernible from the publicly available information that might enable BASF to increase the price that it proposes to pay for Engelhard by US$1.00 per share. These efforts have been rebuffed. Following Engelhard's refusal to enter into a dialogue with BASF, BASF earlier today sent the following letter to Engelhard's Board of Directors:

January 03, 2006
Board of Directors of Engelhard Corporation
101 Wood Avenue
Iselin, NJ 08830-0770
U.S.A.

Attention: Mr. Barry W. Perry, Chairman of the Board

Dear Sirs:
We appreciate having had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Perry on December 21, 2005. We also appreciate the conversations Mr. Perry and Dr. Hambrecht have had since their initial meeting, as well as the fact that you have met during the holiday season.

However, we are disappointed that you and Engelhard's management refuse to meet with us to further discuss our proposal to acquire Engelhard and, in particular, that you refuse to share with us information that may enable us to increase the price we propose to pay for Engelhard's shares. We have clearly indicated to Mr. Perry that we would be prepared to raise our current offer price by as much as $1.00 per share if he agrees to meet with us and the information provided supports such an increase. In the absence of such additional information, we are unable to improve our original offer of $37.00 per share.

As we have said, we believe our current proposal presents your stockholders with a compelling opportunity for significant value increase for their Engelhard shares. Given your position, we see no alternative but to take our proposal directly to your stockholders.

We intend, in the near future, to commence a tender offer to purchase all of the outstanding shares of Engelhard for $37.00 per share in cash. In addition, to support our offer, we plan to nominate candidates for election to Engelhard's Board of Directors.

The following are the principal terms of our proposal:

Price and Structure: BASF Aktiengesellschaft proposes to acquire Engelhard through an all cash transaction at a price of $37.00 per share of Engelhard stock, or an aggregate of approximately $4.9 billion for the fully diluted equity of Engelhard. This price represents a 23% premium above the December 20, 2005 closing price of Engelhard stock of $30.05 (the day before the initial meeting of Mr. Perry and Dr. Hambrecht) and a 30% premium over Engelhard's 90-day average share price on December 20, 2005 of $28.42. This price also represents a premium of 23% to Engelhard's 2005 year end closing price of $30.15, and a significant premium to the four-year high closing price of $32.49 achieved on July 14, 2004.

Consummation of our offer would be subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, including the tender of a majority of Engelhard's shares on a fully diluted basis, the absence of a material adverse effect on Engelhard and the necessary actions of Engelhard's board of directors to render Engelhard's poison pill and Article Seventh of its Certificate of Incorporation inapplicable to the transactions we propose. The tender offer would be followed by a second step merger in which the holders of all remaining Engelhard shares would receive the same consideration of $37.00 per share in cash.

Regulatory: Our legal advisors and we have reviewed the potential regulatory issues raised by a combination of our various businesses and believe that the transaction will not raise any material issues with the regulatory authorities in the United States, Europe or elsewhere. We are confident that any regulatory approvals that we do need would be obtained quickly.

Financing: Our proposal is not subject to any financing condition. We are an AA rated company with sufficient cash and financing flexibility to fully fund the proposed transaction.

Board Approval: Our proposal has been approved by both our Management Board and our Supervisory Board.

Although we are being forced to take our proposal directly to your stockholders, it remains our strong preference to work with you towards a negotiated transaction. As we have said, we are prepared to meet with you and Mr. Perry at any time to discuss our proposal. In particular, as Dr. Hambrecht proposed, we are prepared to meet with Mr. Perry immediately to see whether he can demonstrate value in addition to that discernible from our current information that might enable us to increase the price that we propose to pay for Engelhard by $1.00 per share.

We hope that you will decide to enter into a constructive dialogue regarding our proposal. We are confident that, if we work together, we can quickly consummate a transaction that is in the best interests of the stockholders of both our companies.

We are at your disposal to discuss any aspect of our proposal.

Sincerely,

BASF Aktiengesellschaft

Hambrecht Bock

BASF expects to commence a tender offer for all of Engelhard's shares of common stock shortly, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) together with all relevant tender offer documentation. The offer will be subject to customary conditions, including that a majority of Engelhard's shares of common stock, on a fully diluted basis, are tendered into BASF's offer, and that Engelhard's board takes all necessary actions to make its shareholder rights plan and the supermajority voting provisions in its certificate of incorporation inapplicable to BASF's offer. BASF's proposal is not subject to any financing condition.

BASF will host a conference call for analysts, investors and media today, January 3, 2006, from 11:30 AM to 1.00 PM EST/5:30 to 7:00 PM CET. During this conference call, journalists will be able to ask questions from 12:30 PM EST/6:30 PM CET onwards. You may participate in this call by using one of the following dial-in numbers:

+1 866 291 4166 (USA);
+44 207 107 0611 (UK);
+49 69 22222 0593 (Germany)

BASF's Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, Dr. Jurgen Hambrecht, and BASF's Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Kurt Bock, will host this call. In addition, the call can be accessed on the Internet at www.basf.com/share.

A webcast of the call will be available after the conference call and can be accessed at www.basf.com/share.

Lehman Brothers is acting as financial advisor and Shearman & Sterling LLP is acting as legal advisor to BASF on the proposed transaction.

Platts 2006/1/19

BASF to open engineering plastics compounding unit at Altamira

BASF will expand its North American engineering plastics manufacturing operations with the installation of compounding capacity at its Altamira, Mexico, site, the company said in a press statement Thursday.
Engineering plastics to be compounded at Altamira include various nylon 6, nylon 6,6 and PBT resins, BASF said. The plant is scheduled for start-up in the second quarter of 2006. Plastics compounded at Altamira will be supplied to customers based in Mexico and along the US-Mexico border. BASF said the new plant has no impact on BASF's other North American engineering plastics compounding facilities in Wyandotte, Michigan, and Sparta, Tennessee, which will continue their normal operations.
"We selected Altamira as the ideal location for this compounding extrusion line because it is a well-established, major production site for our styrenics business, and therefore already houses the infrastructure and people with the requisite technical familiarity with polymer and compounding processes that meet our standards for producing high-quality resins for our customers," said Greg Masica, director of manufacturing for BASF's Engineering Plastics business in North America.

BASF 2003/6/3

Altamira site vital for BASF's commitment to North American styrenics market
Global grades of ABS, ASA and new production for Styrolux SBC are key highlights
http://www.basf.com/corporate/news2003/newsinfo_altamira_062303.html

At first, BASF's Altamira, Mexico, site was the cornerstone of the company's presence in the North American styrenic copolymer market. The site's role has grown to be a key symbol for BASF's commitment to its comprehensive line of styrenics in this region through investments and developing advanced products, such as global grades, that meet the changing needs of customers.

According to Jay Kline, Group Vice President, Styrenics, BASF Corporation, the company has continued to strengthen its position in the North American market since it brought on stream two years ago a new, 130,000-metric-ton manufacturing facility for acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA) at Altamira.

"Having world-scale manufacturing operations that utilize the latest technology at Altamira affirm BASF's dedication to this market," said Kline. "Our manufacturing plant for TerluranR ABS and LuranR S ASA is up and running, and represents our long-term commitment to offering global grades. It is at this facility, along with our plant in South Korea and the soon to be completed European plant, where BASF is producing styrenic copolymers that deliver consistent performance parameters anywhere in the world. We view these global products and their targeted end uses as growth areas in which many of our activities will continue to be focused."

Kline added that the styrenic copolymers plant in Altamira supplies global grades to the North and South American markets. Typical applications for Terluran ABS and Luran S ASA include transportation, building and construction, appliances and electronics.

BASF will also bring on stream a new manufacturing plant for StyroluxR styrene-butadiene copolymers (SBC) with an annual production capacity of 45,000 metric tons at Altamira later this year. Styrolux SBC combines high transparency and impact strength, making these injection molding and extrusion thermoplastic resins ideal for medical applications, food service products like thermoformed clear drinking cups and shrink/film wrap, toys, household appliances and premium clear coat hangers. The plant will supply customers mainly in North and South America.

2006/2/16 BASF/Diversa

BASF and Diversa Form Broad Alliance to Develop Innovative New Products
http://www.diversa.com/presrele/2006/view_release.asp?id=20060216

Diversa Corporation and BASF announced today that they have entered into a broad alliance that will leverage Diversa's leadership position in novel enzyme development and BASF's expertise in biotechnology, process development, product applications, and global marketing and distribution. Under the agreement, Diversa will be responsible for discovery and optimization of new enzymes, and BASF will be responsible for product and process development and all commercialization matters.

The new agreement is a significant expansion of the relationship between Diversa and BASF that began in 2001 with a collaborative agreement to develop biocatalysts. In 2003, under the original agreement, BASF licensed a proprietary enzyme from Diversa for the biocatalytic synthesis of a chiral pharmaceutical intermediate. The two companies will be focusing on improving industrial processes and product performance by combining BASF's application know how, chemical and biotechnology expertise and market knowledge with Diversa's enzyme discovery and optimization technologies.

"Diversa and BASF intend to leverage our combined expertise in biotechnology and chemistry aiming at system innovations for diverse industrial applications," said Dr. Alfred Hackenberger, BASF's President of Specialty Chemicals Research. "We look forward to addressing several exciting opportunities by developing better products to help our customers in several key markets like pulp and paper or fine chemicals to be more successful."

"Diversa has a well-established track record of applying powerful and patented enzyme discovery and optimization technologies to develop differentiated enzyme products. With this broad new agreement, Diversa will become a strategic partner in BASF's biotechnology activities and will apply these technologies to assist BASF in extending its well-deserved reputation as one of the industry leaders in the development of innovative bio-based products," stated Edward T. Shonsey, Diversa's Chief Executive Officer.

BASF has more than two decades of experience in the area of biotechnology. The company uses biocatalytic processes to produce a variety of products like vitamin B2, the amino acid lysine, and chiral intermediates (ChiPros?) by means of living cell fermentation or enzyme catalysis. In 2005, BASF posted sales of around Euro 400 million with products generated completely or partially using biotechnological processes. Expanding research activities within BASF's "Growth Cluster White Biotechnology" will be supported by investments of Euro 150 million over the period 2006 to 2008.

About BASF
BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals to crude oil and natural gas. As a reliable partner to virtually all industries, BASF's intelligent solutions and high-value products help its customers to be more successful. BASF develops new technologies and uses them to open up additional market opportunities. It combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility, thus contributing to a better future. In 2004, BASF had approximately 82,000 employees and posted sales of more than Euro 37 billion. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA), New York (BF) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

About Diversa
Diversa Corporation is a leader in applying proprietary genomic technologies for the rapid discovery and optimization of novel protein-based products. Diversa is directing its integrated portfolio of technologies to the discovery, evolution, and production of commercially valuable molecules with agricultural, chemical, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications. Diversa has established alliances and joint ventures with market leaders, such as BASF, Cargill Health and Food Technologies, DuPont Bio-Based Materials, Medarex, Merck, and Xoma. In addition, Diversa has formed a broad strategic relationship with Syngenta AG, a world-leading agribusiness company. Diversa has commercialized products both independently and in collaboration with strategic partners and licensees. Additional information is available at Diversa's website:
http://www.diversa.com/

2006/3/1 BASF

BASF reaches agreement to buy Degussa's construction chemicals business
http://corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=2175&id=IK9w28FQfbcp2-9

Transaction value Euro 2.7 billion for BASF
Attractive forward integration for BASF
4 to 5 percent annual growth in global construction chemicals market

BASF Aktiengesellschaft, Ludwigshafen, reached an agreement with Degussa AG, Dusseldorf, to acquire Degussa's construction chemicals business. The purchase price for equity is just under Euro2.2 billion. As a result, the transaction value for BASF is Euro2.7 billion. The transaction, which still requires approval from the relevant authorities, is expected to close by the middle of 2006.

"Degussa's construction chemicals unit has an excellent position in the industry and offers BASF an attractive means of forward integration in its existing value chain in construction chemicals," said Dr. Andreas Kreimeyer, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft, responsible for the Performance Products segment. "The acquisition allows us to tap into the growth potential of the construction chemicals market on a sustainable basis and will further expand our position in this high-yield industry."

The global construction chemicals market is valued at aroundEuro13 billion and is attractive in view of annual growth of about 4 to 5 percent, relatively stable margins and high potential for innovation. The acquisition of Degussa's business will give BASF rapid access to additional industrial customers and end-users. BASF's strong presence in Asia will additionally generate interesting growth opportunities in this region's booming construction sector.

By combining its own chemical expertise with Degussa's know-how in construction chemicals applications, BASF will provide its customers with innovation at the highest level and help them to be more successful in the competitive construction sector. "We rely on the expertise of the employees at Degussa construction chemicals as well as our existing workforce, and are looking forward to forming the best team in the construction chemicals industry," said Kreimeyer.

In fiscal 2004, Degussa's construction chemicals division posted sales of approximately Euro1.8 billion and an EBIT of Euro201 million, with a global workforce of about 7,400 employees. As the market and technology leader as well as the largest supplier of construction chemical products, the division markets about 40,000 products worldwide and is organized in two segments - Admixture Systems and Construction Systems.

The business units in the Admixture Systems segment offer products and system solutions for the concrete industry. Customers include manufacturers of ready-mix and precast concrete and concrete products as well as contractors engaged in paving, mining and underground construction. The technologies used in Admixture Systems' products ensure optimal concrete properties.

The business units in the Construction Systems segment are active in the areas of building systems, flooring applications, coatings and facades and expansion joints. Customers include building trade businesses, fabricators, building contractors and dealers specializing in concrete and masonry renovation, waterproofing, sealing, adhesive systems, tile fixing, performance flooring, coatings and facades, exterior insulation and expansion joints.

BASF supplies chemical precursors to the construction chemicals industry, in particular to formulators of construction chemical products. Functional polymers from BASF improve the flow properties of concrete, protect its surface, or are used in concrete repair systems. Other applications for functional polymers are adhesives for flooring and tiling, sealants, water vapor barriers and primers. Functional polymers are also used in phase-change materials (PCMs) for indoor temperature management. Other construction chemicals from BASF include wood coatings and polyurethane systems for installation purposes.

デグサ　ジャパン　http://www.degussa.co.jp/japan/ja/company/structure/fine_industrial_chemicals.html

コンストラクション ケミカルは建設業界の顧客を対象とした化学システムとフォーミュレーションから成り立ちます。デグサはグローバルマーケットリーダーとして、強固な流通ネットワークを築き、アプリケーション開発の豊富な経験を蓄えています。このセグメントに含まれるビジネスユニットは混和剤システム（北米）、混和剤システム（ヨーロッパ）、混和剤システム（アジア/パシフィック）、建材システム（アメリカ）、建材システム（ヨーロッパ）です。

株式会社エヌエムビー （デグサ AG 100％）
http://www.degussa.co.jp/japan/ja/company/degussa_japan_group/nmb.html

コンクリ−ト用化学混和剤、モルタル・グラウト用混和剤、コンクリ−ト製品用混和剤、吹付けコンクリ−ト用混和剤、コンクリ−ト用高性能床材、高性能無収縮材、コンクリ−ト用補修材、塗膜防水材

2006/3/22 BASF

BASF increases capacities of Acrylic monomers and superabsorbents to meet growing demand
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=2203&id=ahNGK8Mn-bcp44N

BASF plans to increase its existing production capacities for acrylic acid and superabsorbent polymers (SAP) in Antwerp and for butylacrylate in Ludwigshafen. BASF cites major expansion of its European business as the reason for the extensions. "The decision came in response to existing as well as new long-term supplier agreements, in most cases with strategic customers. Contracts are already in place covering the greater part of the sales volume for the additional quantities," said Dr. Markus Kramer, head of the Functional Polymers division. "The aim of our business model and of the current investment program is to support customer growth and promote innovations."

BASF intends to use latest technology to improve its competitiveness and strengthen its global market leadership in this area.

The plans involve increasing the capacity of the existing SAP plant at the Antwerp site from the current figure of 115,000 metric tons to 175,000 metric tons annually. Capacity for the precursor acrylic acid will be extended as a result. A second plant with a capacity of 160,000 metric tons is to be built to back the existing acrylic acid plant. The additional acrylic acid produced will be needed for SAP production in Antwerp and will supply additional volumes for Ludwigshafen as part of the European integrated production system: Plans to expand the capacity of the existing butylacrylate plant in Ludwigshafen will cause increased demand for the precursor, acrylic acid. The new capacities will be available by 2008 at the latest.

Acrylic acid is the main precursor in the production of superabsorbent polymers, materials which absorb many times their own weight in liquid and are mainly used in diapers and other hygienic products. Other acrylic acid derivatives are pure acrylate dispersions of the kind used for binders in varnishes and paints, and acrylic acid ester, also known as acrylate. These monomeric building blocks are used to manufacture the polymer dispersions contained as a functional component in architectural coatings, glues, fiber binders, products for the construction chemicals industry and coatings for the paper industry.

2006/4/5 BASF

BASF significantly strengthens polyurethanes business in North America
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=2227&id=JyVHp8R-Ebcp.6U

Expansion of polyol production at Geismar site in United States
Acquisition of DNT plant from Air Products completed

BASF plans to increase the existing production capacities for polyols at its Verbund site in Geismar, Louisiana. Polyols are propylene oxide-based materials used to manufacture polyurethane products. BASF will construct two new reactors and revamp two existing reactors used to manufacture polyols. A new logistics center will also be built for polyurethane basic products and other chemicals. The total investment for these measures is about $125 million.

In addition, BASF plans to transfer a major part of the polyol production from its site in Wyandotte, Michigan, to Geismar. These measures will lead to an increase in the annual capacity of polyols in the U.S. from currently 250,000 metric tons (including external tolling arrangements and purchases) to 350,000 metric tons in 2008. BASF's own capacity will better support the existing business and replaces to a large extent external tolling arrangements and purchases.

BASF has also successfully completed its acquisition of a dinitrotoluene (DNT) manufacturing plant in Geismar from Air Products and Chemicals Inc., Pennsylvania, for $155 million. The transaction has already received all necessary regulatory approvals. DNT is an important raw material for the production of toluene diisocyanate (TDI), a polyurethane basic material used in various applications such as seat cushioning foams for furniture and automobiles. The DNT plant will supply BASF's TDI plant in Geismar, which has an annual capacity of 160,000 metric tons.

"Our investments at the Geismar site underline our commitment to the polyurethane market in North America," said Bill Bernstein, Group Vice President of BASF's polyurethanes business in North America. "These measures will improve the effectiveness of our polyol and TDI manufacturing at Geismar, and will secure a reliable supply of high-quality products to our customers in the long run."

BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals to crude oil and natural gas. As a reliable partner to virtually all industries, BASF's intelligent system solutions and high-value products help its customers to be more successful. BASF develops new technologies and uses them to open up additional market opportunities. It combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility, thus contributing to a better future. In 2005, BASF had approximately 81,000 employees and posted sales of more than Euro 42.7 billion. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA), New York (BF) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

2006/4/25 BASF

BASF doubles production capacity for engineering plastic Ultrason(R) in Ludwigshafen
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=2245&id=alc2a8XiPbcp*tn

Expansion to 12,000 metric tons per year
23 new jobs created
Basis for global growth

BASF is to double production capacity for the engineering plastic Ultrason(R) at its Ludwigshafen site. The expansion to 12,000 metric tons per year is expected to be completed by the end of 2007. In addition, the company will build a new logistics and packaging center for Ultrason(R). The two projects will involve a capital expenditure in the mid-double digit million euro ranges. A total of 23 new jobs will be created.

"We are expanding capacity in response to constantly growing global demand from our customers for our Ultrason(R) engineering plastic," said Raimar Jahn, head of BASF's Performance Polymers division. "In recent years, we have successfully developed many new applications for UltrasonR in all regions. We are convinced that we will continue to drive this trend," he continued.

Plastics marketed under the Ultrason(R) brand are used, for example, in car headlamp units, engine cooling and lubrication systems, in a wide range of electrical applications as well as in aerospace components. The plastics are particularly suitable for use at temperatures of up to 220 degrees Celsius (428 degrees Fahrenheit).

Ultrason(R) is produced exclusively in Ludwigshafen. Global marketing and application development are also managed from Ludwigshafen.

* Ultrason S ：polysulfone
　Ultrason E ：polyethersulfone

2006/5/2 BASF

BASF to acquire resins specialist Johnson Polymer
http://www.corporate.basf.com/en/presse/mitteilungen/pm.htm?pmid=2263&id=JeRSO8ZwPbcp45j

Acquisition of a profitable and innovative business with high growth rates
Addition of water-based technology complements BASF's coating resins portfolio
Strengthens global presence with focus on North America

BASF, Ludwigshafen, Germany, today announced an agreement to acquire resins manufacturer Johnson Polymer, a subsidiary of JohnsonDiversey Inc. of Sturtevant, Wisconsin, a U.S. cleaning and hygiene products manufacturer. The respective agreement signed on May 1, 2006 provides for a sale price of $470 million on a cash and debt-free basis. Both companies have agreed not to disclose additional financial details of the deal. The transaction, which is still subject to approval by the relevant authorities, is expected to close by the end of June 2006. The parties are also seeking the advice of the Johnson Polymer B.V. (Netherlands) works council prior to finalizing the transaction.

Johnson Polymer is one of the world's leading producers and suppliers of water-based resins. Resins are important raw materials for the production of coatings in the automotive, wood, packaging and printing industries. Johnson Polymer's water-based product range complements BASF's existing portfolio, which concentrates mainly on high-solids and UV resins.

The global market for water-based resins is growing at an average of 5 percent per year. In recent years, Johnson Polymer has grown faster than the market and has been profitable. Roughly 60 percent of sales, which were approximately $360 million in 2005, are generated in North America. Johnson Polymer has 430 employees and operates two production sites in the United States and one in the Netherlands, as well as technical centers and offices in Asia Pacific.

"This transaction is a further important step in strengthening BASF's technology and innovation driven specialty business with performance products. The deal will further improve BASF's position in a profitable, fast-growing business and open up new areas for innovation," said BASF Board member Dr. Andreas Kreimeyer. "The acquisition of Johnson Polymer expands our high-growth coating resins business. We are supplementing our expertise in this area with water-based technologies from a customer-focused company with a highly qualified team," added Patrick Prevost, President of BASF's Performance Chemicals division. At the same time, BASF will strengthen its market presence, particularly in North America, and will therefore be able to offer its customers a wider range of technologies from a stronger regional base.

"JohnsonDiversey Inc. is pleased to sell this business unit to a company with a strong culture and attention to employees," said company Chairman S. Curtis Johnson. "I've been impressed with the employee focus of BASF," Mr. Johnson said, "and I'm hopeful this will create new opportunities for our world-class Polymer employees."

JohnsonDiversey President and CEO Edward Lonergan said that the divestiture represents an important step in refocusing on the company's core business in the commercial cleaning and hygiene market. "The sale of our Polymer business will give us the financial flexibility to pursue new opportunities for growth in our core business," said Mr. Lonergan. "This is a critical component of our restructuring program. We're pleased the acquisition of Polymer is strategic for BASF, allowing us to pursue strategic investments of our own." He added that JohnsonDiversey intends to use the proceeds from the sale to reduce the company's debt.

Johnson Polymer's operations will be integrated into BASF's Performance Chemicals division. This division produces and markets a broad range of specialty chemicals worldwide. These products include colorants and additives, which, like resins, are used for example in coatings applications. In 2005, the Performance Chemicals division posted sales of Euro 2.9 billion.

---

Johnson Polymer 　　http://www.johnsonpolymer.com/johnsonpolymer/index?page=home

Johnson Polymer is a member of the SC Johnson family of companies and has operations around the world.

Johnson Polymer is a leading global innovator of polymers that address environmental, health and safety issues such as VOC reduction in inks and paints; food contact safety for packaging materials; and recyclability for paper and plastic.

Printing & Packaging
Johnson Polymer produces polymers for use in film printing, overprint varnishes, functional coatings and liquid inks for the packaging and publishing markets.

Coatings
Johnson Polymer produces high solids, water-based polymers used in the Industrial Coatings market to enhance coatings for plastic, wood, metal, maintenance and auto refinish.

Johnson Polymer also offers a full line of water-based polymers for the Architectural Coatings market, to improve the performance of products such as exterior and interior modifiers, interior varnishes, exterior and interior stains, and concrete coatings.

Plastic Additives
Johnson Polymer offers flow additives, reactants and compatibilizers, chain extenders and plasticizers into the Plastic Additives market to aid in the recyclability and overall performance of plastic products.

Functional Coatings and Active Packaging
Johnson Polymer offers a line of products for use on paper, film and foil substrates. These products include barrier coatings; heat seal additives; and metallization, foil and film primers used in the food packaging (meat, dairy, and snack), label and tobacco packaging markets.
----------
Johnson Polymer LLC has reached an amicable agreement with its partner, Toyo Ink Mfg. Co. Ltd., to purchase its remaining shares of the companies' long standing joint venture, Johnson Polymer Corporation （ジョンソンポリマー株式会社）. On February 10, 2006, JPC will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Johnson Polymer.

2006/5/10 BASF

BASF、エンジニアリングプラスチック「Ultrason(R)（ウルトラゾーン）」の生産能力を倍増
生産能力を年産1 万2,000 トンに拡大
グローバル成長への基盤

BASF（本社：ドイツ、ルートヴィッヒスハーフェン）は、エンジニアリングプラスチックである「UltrasonR（ウルトラゾーン）」の生産能力を倍増致します。本社ルートヴィッヒスハーフェンの施設の増強を2007 年末までに行い、生産能力を年産1 万2,000 トンに引き上げます。さらに、ウルトラゾーンの物流・梱包センターも新設致します。この2 つのプロジェクトの投資総額は約5,000 万ユーロ(約7１億円)で、新たに23 人分の新規雇用を見込んでいます。
近年、ウルトラゾーンの新しい用途開発が世界各国で積極的に行われており、生産能力を増強することで、ウルトラゾーンに対する世界的な需要の伸びに対応致します。
ウルトラゾーンブランドのプラスチックは、耐熱温度が220 ﾟC（428 ﾟF）と非常に高いのが特長で、自動車のヘッドランプ、エンジンの冷却システムや潤滑システム、各種電子部品、航空宇宙用部品などに採用されています。
ウルトラゾーンの生産は、ドイツ、ルートヴィッヒスハーフェンで行われています。ルートヴィッヒスハーフェンでは生産活動のほか、ウルトラゾーンの世界的なマーケティングや用途開発も統括しています。


* Ultrason(R) ポリエーテルスルフォン/ポリスルフォン ( PES, PSU )

2006/5/25 BASF

BASF、ベルギーのバイオテクノロジー企業、クロップデザイン社を買収
http://www.basf-japan.co.jp/apw/Japan/Japan/ja_JP/function/conversions:/publish/Japan/upload/new/Press2006/2006-05-25.pdf

・バイオテクノロジーの研究開発をさらに強化
・農業的価値の高い形質の活用により、高収量のトウモロコシや大豆、ナタネを開発

　BASF（本社：ドイツ ルートヴィッヒスハーフェン）はこのほど、ベルギーのバイオテクノロジー企業、クロップデザイン社を買収致しました。クロップデザイン社は、BASF グループ内で植物バイオテクノロジーを扱うBASFプラントサイエンス社に統合されます。買収額等の詳細については、両社の合意により非公開です。
　クロップデザイン社の従業員は、ベルギーのヘントにある研究施設（買収後は、BASFプラントサイエンスに所属）に引き続き勤務致します。
　今回の買収により、BASF プラントサイエンス社の遺伝子研究活動が補完されるとともに、農業分野で重要な遺伝形質を活用する事業活動がより強化されます。
　クロップデザイン社は、農作物の収量拡大や耐干ばつ性の向上、トウモロコシやコメなどの栄養素の利用効率の向上などの形質に特化した企業です。形質とは、遺伝子によって発現する植物の特質で、植物バイオテクノロジーの商業化の基礎となります。BASF プラントサイエンス社では、消費者と環境に明らかなメリットをもたらす次世代の植物バイオテクノロジー製品を開発するという長期戦略を掲げています。
　BASF は、増大する世界人口を支えるため、作物の収量の拡大が今後ますます重要になると考えています。今後15 年で、世界の人口は、現在よりも約15 億人も多い80 億人近くに達すると予想されています。研究に12 年から15 年のリードタイムがあることを考えると、一刻を争う状況にあると言えます。
　また、バイオフューエル（生物燃料）やバイオポリマーなどの再生可能資源に使用される農作物が増えていることも、農業に適した土地が限られていることを考慮すると、今後の供給を逼迫させる原因になると考えられます。
　農業的に価値の高い優れた形質をクロップデザイン社は取り揃えており、今後、BASF が持つ高収量な作物の製品パイプラインは大幅に強化されます。クロップデザイン社とBASF プラントサイエンス社の関連企業であるベルリンのメタノミクス社が持つスクリーニング能力を活用すれば、世界的にも類を見ない組み合せのスクリーニング・パラメーターが実現し、また遺伝子試験の処理能力も大幅に向上します。この結果、高い競争力が継続的にもたらされ、植物バイオテクノロジーのマーケットリーダーとしてのBASF のポジションを今後も堅持することが可能です。
　クロップデザインにはコメ関連の遺伝形質についての知見があり、これも、BASFプラントサイエンスの遺伝子研究を強化するものと期待されています。この研究は、メタノミクス社のメタボリック・プロファイリング技術を基礎としたものです。植物遺伝子一つひとつが持つ代謝機能を特定し、それを望ましい特徴を持たせた植物の開発に応用します。3 万種類もの植物遺伝子の代謝プロファイルがすでにデータベース化されていますが、これは植物バイオテクノロジー分野におけるBASF の他に類を見ない強みといえます。
　BASF プラントサイエンス社とクロップデザイン社は2005 年12 月、すでにライセンスの使用と研究開発で広範な契約を取り交わしています。今回の買収により、この契約でカバーされていなかった形質や研究開発まで含めたクロップデザイン社の全てをBASF プラントサイエンス社が利用できるようになります。

■クロップデザイン社について
　クロップデザイン社は世界の種子市場や植物由来の製品に各種形質を提供するバイオテクノロジー企業です。独自開発によるTraitMill(TM)プラットフォームを用いて遺伝形質を明らかにし、トウモロコシやコメなど、さまざまな植物の改良を進めています。1998 年に創立され、ベルギーのヘントにある研究所には70 人を超える職員を有しています。また、研究開発や商業的利用についても、広範なネットワークを築いています。

■BASF プラントサイエンス社について
　BASF プラントサイエンス社はBASF における植物バイオテクノロジー関連の活動を統括しています。同社は、欧州4 カ国と北米の7 拠点に500 人以上の従業員を擁し、国際的に研究開発・技術開発拠点をコーディネートしています。欧州および北米のさまざまな研究機関、大学、バイオテクノロジー企業との共同研究も数多く推進しています。研究活動では、農業活動の効率性向上や身体に良い栄養素、植物由来の再生可能原料の製造等の分野に注力しています。耐干ばつ性の強い植物の開発などが例として挙げられます。また、循環器系の疾病予
防に用いられるオメガ3 脂肪酸やビタミンを大量に含む植物の開発なども行っています。BASF では、今後3 年間で2 億7,000 万ユーロを投資し、植物バイオテクノロジー関連事業を拡大する計画です。

2006/8/18 BASF

Opening ceremony marks successful start-up of integrated isocyanates complex at Shanghai Chemical Industry Park

Joint ventures between BASF, Huntsman and Chinese partners
Start-up of 240,000 metric tons per year of crude MDI, 160,000 metric tons of TDI
Second largest investment by BASF in China

BASF, Huntsman and their Chinese partners - Shanghai Hua Yi (Group Company), Sinopec Shanghai Gao Qiao Petrochemical Corporation and Shanghai Chloro-Alkali Chemical Co. Ltd. - held an opening ceremony today (August 18, 2006) at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park, China, to celebrate the start-up of their integrated isocyanates complex. The project involved a total capital expenditure of $1 billion, and was completed as scheduled in mid-2006.

Present at the ceremony were Dr. John Feldmann, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft, responsible for Plastics as well as Oil & Gas, and Dr. Martin Brudermuller, Member of the Board of Executive Directors, responsible for Asia. Vice Mayor Hu Yanzhao of Shanghai Municipality and Peter Huntsman, President and CEO of Huntsman Corporation, were also in attendance.

The complex has a capacity of 240,000 metric tons per year of crude MDI (diphenylmethane diisocyanate) and 160,000 metric tons of TDI (toluene diisocyanate) per year and will serve the rapidly growing market for polyurethanes in China. In the period up to 2015, the Chinese polyurethanes market is expected to grow at about 10 percent per year, becoming the world's largest market.

"Our isocyanate complex in Shanghai will give us an excellent competitive position to participate in the rapid growth of the Chinese market and better serve our customers from local production," said Feldmann. "In addition, we will next year open a new facility in Pudong (Shanghai), which will produce polyurethane specialties tailored to the requirements of our Chinese customers."

BASF is one of the largest foreign chemical investors in China, with sales of Euro 2.8 billion in 2005 and a workforce of more than 4,000 employees. By 2010, BASF aims to generate 10 percent of its global sales and earnings in its chemical businesses in China.

"Today we are inaugurating BASF's second largest investment project in China, which will make a significant contribution to our ambitious targets," said Brudermuller. "Moreover, my thanks go to the outstanding efforts of all our dedicated employees, who have worked on this project since groundbreaking in spring 2004."

The integrated isocyanates complex consists of three separate joint ventures:

Shanghai Lianheng Isocyanate Co. Ltd. - A 240,000 metric tons per year crude MDI manufacturing plant including manufacturing facilities for the precursors aniline and nitrobenzene built by BASF, Huntsman, Shanghai Hua Yi (Group) Company, Shanghai Chlor-Alkali Chemical Co. Ltd. and Sinopec Shanghai Gao Qiao Petrochemical Corporation. (BASF share: 35 percent)

Shanghai BASF Polyurethane Co. Ltd. - An MDI finishing plant and a 160,000 metric tons per year TDI plant with precursors nitric acid and dinitrotoluene built by BASF, Shanghai Hua Yi (Group) Company and Sinopec Shanghai Gao Qiao Petrochemical Corporation. (BASF share: 70 percent)

Huntsman Polyurethanes Shanghai Ltd. - An MDI finishing plant and a prepolymers plant built by Huntsman and Shanghai Chlor-Alkali Chemical Co. Ltd.

Shanghai Lianheng Isocyanate Co., Ltd. BASF、ハンツマン、上海クロールアルカリ、 上海華誼公司、SINOPEC上海高橋石化のJV	アニリン	160
	ニトロベンゼン	240
	MDI	240
Shanghai BASF Polyurethane Co., Ltd. BASF、上海華誼公司、 SINOPEC上海高橋石化のJV。	硝酸	245
	ジニトロトルエン	150
	TDI	160
Huntsman Polyurethanes Shanghai Ltd. ハンツマンと上海クロールアルカリのJV。	MDI精製

The isocyanates MDI and TDI are important precursors in the manufacture of polyurethanes - versatile polymers that are used in many applications such as the automotive and construction industries, in appliances such as refrigerators, and for upholstery and footwear.

The partners shared the common goal of building and operating a world-scale project according to the highest environment, health and safety (EHS) standards. The project involved 29 million working hours. During the ceremony, an additional 250,000 yuan (Euro 25,000) was donated to the "Good Neighbor" program initiated around two years ago by the three joint ventures, to help the disadvantaged within the local community.

2006/9/14 BASF

Ludwigshafen Verbund site: BASF expands special amine manufacturing capacity

BASF is going to expand its annual capacity for manufacturing the special amines aminodiglycol (ADG) and morpholine, from the current 20,000 metric tons to 30,000 metric tons, at its German Verbund site in Ludwigshafen. The expansion of an existing production facility is scheduled to come on stream in the first quarter of 2007. By enhancing its special amines capacity, BASF is responding to the increase in demand by the gas purification and electronics industries. The company makes these products at its Ludwigshafen plant only.

"By expanding our manufacturing capacity, we accompany our customers' growth in these innovation-driven businesses," says Dr. Walter Gramlich, President of the BASF Group's operating division Intermediates. "This is yet another investment that will make our successful global amines business even stronger."

Gas purification and the electronics industry are providing a major growth impetus for the chemical intermediate ADG. ADG removes mainly carbon dioxide, which is a known greenhouse gas, as well as other contaminants from natural gas and refinery gases. Inter alia, ADG thus contributes significantly to making the gas liquefaction process easier. In the electronics industry, ADG is used to formulate so-called photoresist strippers; these are special solvents that play a major role in the manufacture of computer chips and LCD screens. ADG is also utilized in the manufacture of cooling lubricants for metal working and to make crop protectants.

Major morpholine applications include, for example, the production of vulcanization accelerators in the rubber industry, corrosion inhibitors for use in water treatment, optical brighteners for detergents and paper, as well as pharmaceuticals and crop protecting agents.

The world's most multifaceted amine selection
With about 140 different amines, BASF has the world's most diverse portfolio of this type of chemical intermediate. In addition to alkyl-, alkanol-, alkoxyalkylamines, the company also produces heterocyclic and aromatic as well as special amines. In addition the company is marketing a constantly expanding portfolio of chiral amines of high optical and chemical purity. These chemical intermediates are produced in Ludwigshafen and Schwarzheide (Germany), Antwerp (Belgium), Geismar (United States), Camacari (Brazil) and, since 2005, also in Nanjing, the Verbund site in China.

Apart from the applications mentioned, this diverse line of products is being utilized with great success in manufacturing cosmetics as well as cleaning agents. Its applications also include the production of coatings, special plastics, compound materials and fibers.

2006/9/27 BASF

BASF, Dow, Solvay partnership breaks new ground with innovative HPPO technology in Antwerp
Environmentally friendly plant reduces waste water and energy usage

BASF Aktiengesellschaft (BASF) and The Dow Chemical Company (Dow) today launched a long-term venture to produce propylene oxide (PO) at the world's first commercial-scale hydrogen peroxide propylene oxide (HPPO) plant at BASF's site in Antwerp, Belgium. This plant uses a new technology developed jointly by BASF and Dow. PO is a core ingredient for the $21 billion a year polyurethane industry. Solvay S.A. (Solvay) will be a key supplier to the new, innovative facility.

The innovative process technology offers a number of benefits over conventional routes to PO, including better economics, environmental improvements and flexibility for locating new plants.

The HPPO plant will be fed with hydrogen peroxide (HP) from a second new plant at the Antwerp site. The HP plant will have a capacity of 230,000 metric tons per year and will be constructed by Solvay, BASF and Dow. The 300,000 metric tons per year HPPO plant, which is being built jointly by BASF and Dow, is scheduled to start up in early 2008.

Today, Belgium Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt joined Dow's Chairman and Chief Executive, Andrew Liveris, Solvay's Chairman of the Executive Committee, Christian Jourquin, and BASF's Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, Dr. Jurgen Hambrecht, at the project's official groundbreaking ceremony. Each of them planted a tree to commemorate the start of construction and to symbolize the growth opportunities and the environmental benefits generated by the innovative HPPO process.

A partnership in innovation
"HPPO is an exciting technology that supports Dow's focus on sustainability through greater energy efficiency, reduced physical footprint and improved environmental performance, while at the same time, providing attractive economics," said Dow's Andrew Liveris. "Through innovation and our partnership with BASF, this HPPO technology expedites our drive for sustainability."

BASF's Jurgen Hambrecht said: "The HPPO plant will further strengthen our successful polyurethanes business. With Dow and Solvay, we have two strong partners in implementing this innovative technology."

"Today is an important milestone in an exciting industrial project, based on the most advanced proprietary technology. This impressive realization is a tribute to our longstanding and successful co-operation with BASF and Dow. We are happy and proud that BASF and Dow chose our technology for this important project", said Christian Jourquin.

In 2003, Dow and BASF began their joint process research program to develop and commercialize the HPPO technology. This partnership allowed the two companies to combine their innovation strengths and thereby commercialize the technology more rapidly than would have been possible by either partner alone.

Dow and BASF are considering the development of additional HPPO projects in other regions, including Asia. BASF also plans to utilize the HPPO technology with a project at its Geismar, Louisiana, site in the United States.

The benefits of HPPO
Compared with conventional PO process technologies, HPPO offers unique benefits in three areas: economic, environmental and opportunities for future growth.

Economic benefits
New PO plants built using the HPPO technology are more economical because they:
・Require up to 25 percent less capital to build.
・Avoid the need for additional infrastructure or markets for co-products, as the process produces only PO and water.
・Require simpler raw material integration-just hydrogen peroxide and propylene are needed as raw materials.

Environmental benefits
The new HPPO technology brings environmental improvements to the PO industry, by:
・Reducing wastewater by 70 to 80 percent, compared with existing PO technology.
・Reducing energy usage by 35 percent, compared with existing PO technology.
・Reducing infrastructure and physical footprint with simpler raw material integration and avoidance of co-products.

Growth opportunities
HPPO technology requires only propylene and hydrogen peroxide, and produces only the desired end-product, PO, and water, allowing for a new PO plant to be located at a wider range of chemical facilities. HPPO technology provides flexibility when selecting future new plant sites, by avoiding:
・Complex raw material needs and the associated infrastructure.
・Co-product production, such as styrene monomer or propylene dichloride, which require conventional PO plants to be located in large, integrated chemical complexes, where the co-products can be used in other processes.

PO manufacturing joint venture
In February 2006, Dow and BASF signed a manufacturing joint venture agreement to construct and operate a new PO manufacturing facility using the co-developed HPPO technology. Both companies have equal rights to the HPPO technology and receive half of the capacity of the Antwerp plant.

At the same time, Solvay and BASF established a joint venture to construct a 230,000 metric tons per year HP plant at the Antwerp site based on Solvay's high productivity HP technology. A partnership was subsequently set up by this joint venture and Dow for the financing of the HP plant, which is scheduled to come on stream in 2008. The new HP plant will be the largest single-train HP plant in the world.

Uses of propylene oxide
Propylene oxide (PO) is a versatile chemical intermediate used in the production of raw materials for a wide range of industrial and commercial products, including polyurethanes, propylene glycols and glycol ethers.

Polyurethanes make life better, safer and more comfortable. They are used in products for sports and leisure activities, in the home and the car, and for many items from armrests, steering wheels, mattresses and headrests, to refrigerators, cable sheathing, shoe soles and roller skates. With its versatile properties, this plastic material improves our quality of life wherever it's used.

Propylene glycols are used in a wide variety of end-use and industrial applications, from unsaturated polyester resins, cosmetics and household detergents to paints, aircraft and runway deicers and automotive brake fluids. Propylene glycol ethers are commonly used as solvents and coupling agents in paints and in the production of coatings, inks, resins and cleaners.

PO is also used to manufacture propoxylated or specialty organic compounds, including flame retardants, modified carbohydrates (starches), synthetic lubricants and oil field drilling chemicals.

Hydrogen peroxide (HP) is used for its oxidizing properties in applications such as bleaching paper and textile, the treatment of effluents, in pharmacology and as an intermediate in the chemical industry. Hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen. As a consequence, its utilization for the production of Propylene oxide generates no byproducts and no residue - except water. Likewise, the HP route could bring environmental benefits to processes for the production of a number of other chemicals.

2006/10/5　BASF

BASF demonstrates renewed strength in North America
　Savings goal of $400 million achieved ahead of schedule
　Second largest chemical company by sales in North America
　Profitable growth through acquisitions and capital expenditures

BASF today (October 5, 2006) announced that it had achieved in North America annual fixed cost savings of $400 million ahead of its planned target of mid-2007. The savings measures are part of a two-phase restructuring program initiated in 2002 to increase profitability. BASF is pursuing a course of profitable growth in North America through investments and acquisitions and plans to spend over $500 million per year on capital expenditures in the region in 2006 and 2007.

"As a result of our ambitious restructuring program, strong organic growth and our recent acquisitions, BASF is demonstrating renewed strength in North America," said Klaus Peter Lobbe, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft responsible for North America. "In this region, BASF is now the second largest chemical company in terms of sales and has improved its profitability over the last five years significantly. The integration of Engelhard, Degussa Construction Chemicals and Johnson Polymer is proceeding smoothly and according to schedule. Our new businesses will help us grow faster than the market, reduce our earnings cyclicality and supplement our product offerings to help our customers to be more successful. Thus, I am confident that BASF has a bright future in North America."

Lobbe further emphasized the importance of the region to BASF: "The United States remains the world's largest single market for chemical products. As The Chemical Company, BASF wants to have its fair share of it," he said.

Having largely completed its restructuring programs, BASF has undertaken a number of capital expenditure projects in North America that will allow it to further improve its manufacturing base:

BASF Corporation, headquartered in New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF Aktiengesellschaft, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF employs about 16,000 people in North America and had sales of Euro 9.5 billion (approximately $11.3 billion) in 2005. For more information about BASF's North American operations, or to sign up to receive news releases by e-mail, visit www.basf.com/usa.

December 15, 2004

BASF to reshape SAP manufacturing platform in North America
New plant another milestone in strategy to strengthen acrylic acid value chain

BASF will reshape its superabsorbent polymer production capabilities in North America by constructing a new state-of-the-art production facility for superabsorbent polymers at its manufacturing site in Freeport, Texas.

As a result, the company will close its Aberdeen, Miss., and Portsmouth, Va., production operations once the new plant is fully operational. The new plant will begin operation in mid-2007. Investment and capacity details were not disclosed.

"Decommissioning two existing operations and replacing their capacity with a new facility at our Freeport complex will help us to maintain our leadership position in this important market," said Joe Breunig, Group Vice President for Functional Polymers in North America

"Our new plant in Freeport will be another milestone in our strategy to strengthen our acrylic acid value chain by continuously enhancing product quality, availability and competitiveness. State-of-the-art production technology, intelligent logistics solutions and a variety of innovative applications for superabsorbent polymers are an important prerequisite to be recognized as a supplier of choice by our customers worldwide," said Dr. Markus Kramer, Head of BASF's Global Business Unit, Acrylic Monomers and Superabsorbents, Ludwigshafen, Germany.

Until the new facility is on-line, BASF will focus its attention on ensuring that customers' current needs for quality superabsorbent products remain satisfied. "We're excited about this new project, but we have customer commitments now and over the next 30 months to meet," said Breunig. "We're fortunate that our employees at the Aberdeen and Portsmouth sites are motivated, professional, and committed to satisfying the needs of our customers."

BASF's superabsorbent polymers are capable of absorbing and retaining many times their weight in water and are best known for their use in disposable diapers. Specialized forms have also been developed for use in a wide range of applications including packaging materials, cable wrappings, cosmetics, environmental containment and fire fighting. BASF's superabsorbent polymers are cross-linked polyacrylates and have a long history of safe use in domestic, industrial and environmental applications.

2006/10/11 BASF

Hexamoll(R) DINCH (R) The Success Story Continues
　Capacity in Ludwigshafen will be increased to 100,000 metric tons per year
　European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approves Hexamoll(R) DINCH

BASF will increase the capacity for its specialty plasticizer Hexamoll DINCH in Ludwigshafen to 100,000 metric tons per year. Hexamoll DINCH is an innovative plasticizer that was especially developed for use in sensitive applications. Demand for Hexamoll has continuously increased since the market introduction in 2002 leading to full utilization of the 25,000 metric tons per year production plant in Ludwigshafen. The additional capacity will be ready for commercial production in the second quarter of 2007.

Up to now the main focus has been on toys and medical applications, but in the future food contact applications such as cling film 食品包装用フィルムor sealants will also gain importance. At the beginning of October, Hexamoll DINCH received a positive review from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in addition to the existing recommendation from the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR). Hexamoll DINCH is regulated under the global migration with 60 mg per kilogram food. This makes Hexamoll DINCH suitable for a wide range of food contact applications such as cling film, tubes or sealants.

"We are able to support our customers' growth plans with the capacity expansion. The EFSA approval is an important milestone for the global development of Hexamoll DINCH", said Dr. Albert Heuser, President, of the Petrochemicals Division of BASF Group. "This approval, although at a European level, is also important to all our customers globally. It is further confirmation of the excellent toxicological profile of Hexamoll DINCH for example for our customers in the toy industry in Asia, the toy production center of the world. Since they export their products throughout the world, regulatory issues in Europe or NAFTA have a major impact on their business", added Heuser.

For a number of years plasticizers for PVC have come under increased criticism as a cause for possible health risks in specific applications. Consequently, BASF started in 1997 the research project "Sustainable Plasticizers" in order to find alternative products for applications such as toys, medical devices and food contact applications.

From the start Hexamoll DINCH was subject to a large number of toxicological tests. In total Euro 5 million has been spent on toxicological testing, making Hexamoll DINCH the best researched plasticizer on the market. All tests confirmed the excellent toxicological profile of Hexamoll DINCH, underlining its exceptional suitability for sensitive applications. Furthermore, Hexamoll DINCH is also remarkable for its extremely low migration rate that has also been confirmed during comprehensive tests by the Fraunhofer-Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging.

The simple switch
The benefit for customers is twofold: the excellent toxicological profile is complimented by a very good technical performance. Hexamoll DINCH can be processed by existing machinery without any problems. "The switch to Hexamoll DINCH is easy and only requires some slight adjustment of existing recipes and process parameters. Our global technical team is ready to support our customers with the switch and where necessary to consult directly at the local production site" said Heidrun Goth, Global Marketing Manager for Hexamoll DINCH.

Hexamoll DINCH also complies with the new EU-regulation on the restriction of phthalates in toys and children articles and is already widely used by the toy industry in Europe and Asia. The toy producers Schleich, Simba Toys, Annette Himstedt and John are among the customers that already rely on Hexamoll DINCH as an alternative . Also Primmer Nutricia, one of the leading producers of sets for enteral nutrition now uses exclusively Hexamoll DINCH from BASF. "In view of the concerns surrounding some plasticizers, we wanted to be the first in our sector to completely eliminate these substances. After all, with Hexamoll DINCH a safe alternative is now available", highlighted Dagmar Dehler, responsible for marketing at Pfrimmer Nutricia. More and more customers are inquiring about Hexamoll DINCH for other flexible PVC-products, like garden hoses or for sensitive non-PVC-applications like modeling material for children.

Multiple awards
The increased success in the market has also brought special recognition: Hexamoll DINCH has received two innovation awards this year. Hexamoll DINCH was awarded externally the ICIS Publications Innovation Award for Best Product Innovation 2006. In addition Hexamoll DINCH has received the BASF Innovation Award 2006. Dr. Stefan Marcinowski Member of the Board and Research Executive Director highlighted the importance of the award: "With the BASF Innovation Award, the Board of Executive Directors rewards inventions that have been successfully turned into innovations. I am excited about the ICIS Award as the external acknowledgment of our Hexamoll DINCH."

Plasticizers are used to give flexibility to normally rigid and brittle PVC, thus opening up a large number of applications in consumer goods. Plasticizers are essential for a large number of everyday-products like flooring, cable insulation, blood bags and cling film. BASF is one of the leading global plasticizer producers with a production capacity of more than 500,000 tons per year, offering its customers the widest range of standard and specialty products based on their individual requirements.

2006/11/2 BASF

BASF announces full Engelhard integration
　Annual synergies of Euro 160 million ($200 million)
　Reduction of approximately 800 positions
　Catalysts division to be located in Iselin, New Jersey
　BASF's North American headquarters to remain in Florham Park, New Jersey

Following the acquisition of Engelhard Corporation on June 6, 2006, BASF today (November 2, 2006) announced the full integration of Engelhard into its global operations. BASF expects the integration to result in annual synergies of Euro160 million ($200 million) by 2010. Almost half of this amount will be achieved by 2007 and more than 80 percent by 2008. Contributing to the synergies will be a broader global reach, a stronger business presence in certain regions such as North America, and further extensions into key markets. The development positively enhances BASF's position as the supplier of choice to its customers through an innovative and more diversified product portfolio.

The integration will lead to a reduction of about 800 positions, the majority of which will be in the United States. The one-time cost associated with the integration of the former Engelhard business is estimated to be approximately Euro100 million ($120 million).

The Catalysts division and major related research activities will be located in Iselin, New Jersey, while BASF's headquarters in North America will remain in Florham Park, New Jersey.

"The integration allows us to achieve profitable growth by expanding and deepening our existing business relationships in key industries and markets," said Klaus Peter Lobbe, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft responsible for North America. "Our integration plan allows us to combine the strengths of all of our assets ? whether recently acquired or existing ? to ensure that they contribute to our long-term profitability. An important component of this plan is the creation of a team that is the best in the industry and which will play a key role in ensuring BASF's success going forward."

Central to the integration plan is the structure of the new Catalysts division led by Wayne T. Smith, which will merge BASF's existing chemical catalysts business with those catalysts businesses recently acquired. In addition, BASF will combine the respective research activities in its global technology platform.

"The joint research and development capabilities will truly be world class and will yield the innovative products and solutions that our customers expect," stated Smith. "This adds to an already broad catalyst product portfolio and significantly enhances our competitive advantage," he concluded.

The Appearance & Performance Technologies (APT) and Ventures businesses will be integrated into the existing BASF operating divisions of Fine Chemicals, Functional Polymers, Performance Chemicals, Agricultural Products, BASF Future Business, and Catalysts. By doing this, BASF will create growth opportunities for these operations by extending its regional capabilities through broader access to markets and customers, and by tapping into new, exciting business opportunities.

BASF will provide assistance for all employees who are laid off as a result of the integration plans. "Any job loss is difficult," said Mr. Lobbe, "but our principal objective is to ensure the sustained success of BASF. We will treat all affected employees fairly and try to ensure a smooth transition for them during the months ahead," he concluded.

BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals to crude oil and natural gas. As a reliable partner to virtually all industries, BASF's intelligent system solutions and high-value products help its customers to be more successful. BASF develops new technologies and uses them to open up additional market opportunities. It combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility, thus contributing to a better future. BASF has over 95,000 employees and posted sales of more than Euro42.7 billion in 2005. Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

2006/11/2 BASF

BASF set to become supplier with the broadest pigment portfolio

BASF is set to significantly expand its pigment portfolio through the integration of Engelhard Corporation, which it acquired in June. "We are now the supplier with the broadest portfolio in our strategically important markets of the coatings industry and the coloration of plastics", said Reinhard Leppkes, Group Vice President Performance Chemicals for Coatings, Plastics & Specialties.

Effective November 1, Engelhard's previous businesses for effect pigments and films, colored pigments, pigment preparations as well as the special mineral Attapulgite are part of BASF's Performance Chemicals division. The integration will be completed by mid-2007.
(アタパルジャイト： 粘土鉱物の一種。 懸濁剤、シックナーとして用いられる)
BASF is already one of the leading suppliers of inorganic and organic pigments. Integrating former Engelhard businesses will above all expand this portfolio to include effect pigments. This will give BASF a top position in this product class too. "By combining the product offerings, but in particular also the expertise and experience of our employees, we will be able to offer our customers even more versatile and efficient solutions", emphasized Reinhard Leppkes.

BASF's newly acquired portfolio includes MearlinR pigments, a range of pearlescent pigments with silver as well as color gloss effects. The recently launched Lumina? range offers a new generation of pearlescent pigments with exceptional coloristics. Firemist? pigments have a particularly brilliant sparkle. They are used above all in paints in the so-called teletronics field ? for cell phone housing, for example, and many other electronic appliances. Special effect films are an additional product class that BASF is now integrating into its product portfolio. Their multi-layer composition gives them striking color effects and they are ideal for eye-catching plastic components or decorative packaging.

Thanks to the acquisition of the pigment preparation business as well, BASF is getting closer to the end consumer: in the United States, it has become one of the leading suppliers of tinters, used in home improvement stores to mix paints according to customers' wishes. The new business supplements BASF's recently launched XfastR systems for use at the point of sale. In addition, BASF is supplementing its range of colored pigments with inorganic and organic pigments as well as hybrid pigments, marketed mainly in North America. A new addition to BASF's product portfolio is the special mineral Attapulgite, which helps, for example, to improve the flow properties of paints. Overall, the company is strengthening its presence in the North American market.

With a strong global presence, comprehensive technical service and close customer relationships, BASF offers both old and new customers of its expanded Performance Chemicals for Coatings, Plastics & Specialties business good opportunities for becoming even more successful.

2006/11/21 BASF

BASF and Dow to Conduct Joint Feasibility Study for World-Class TDI Facility in Europe

BASF Aktiengesellschaft (BASF) and The Dow Chemical Company (Dow) today announced their decision to conduct a joint feasibility study for the construction of a state-of-the-art production plant for toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and precursors at one of their integrated sites in Europe. The plant would have an annual capacity of 300,000 metric tons and would be the world's largest such facility ever built. The study will take into consideration factors such as location, technology and infrastructure. Should the project prove viable, the facility would start operations in 2011.

"Although this is an early-stage feasibility study, we believe that the world's top two chemical companies can create a world-class TDI facility that has outstanding economic and technological competitiveness," said Pat Dawson, business vice president, Dow Polyurethanes. "This facility would support the future growth plans of Dow's performance businesses, while ensuring our competitiveness to meet increasing customer demand for TDI in Europe."

"With this approach BASF solidifies its commitment to the global TDI market by evaluating additional production capabilities," said Jacques Delmoitiez, president of BASF's Polyurethanes division. "By combining the strengths and expertise of both companies, we continue to improve our ability to serve the needs of our customers and thus helping them to be more successful."

Following the joint development of a process to produce propylene oxide on the basis of hydrogen peroxide (HPPO technology), this current venture is the second recent cooperation between Dow and BASF that focuses on the polyurethanes industry. In September 2006, Dow and BASF held a groundbreaking ceremony for their first world-scale HPPO plant at BASF's site in Antwerp, Belgium. Dow and BASF are considering the development of additional HPPO projects in other regions, including Asia.

2006/12/11 BASF

BASF to acquire motorcycle catalyst business in China to meet growing market demand
・Broadens customer base for environmental technologies
・Helps meet increasingly stringent global emissions controls

BASF said today that it has signed an agreement to acquire a motorcycle catalyst business in mainland China to meet the growing global demand for emissions-control technology.

BASF Catalysts LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary formed by BASF after its acquisition of Engelhard Corporation in 2006, will acquire Guilin REEcat Catalyst Co., Ltd (REEcat), a motorcycle emissions-control catalyst manufacturer based in Guilin, China. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of the second quarter of 2007. 　　桂林

"This is an exciting step forward for BASF Catalysts," said Wayne T. Smith, President of BASF's Catalysts division. "As a world leader in catalysts, we believe it's important that we continue to expand our strong technology presence throughout the world, particularly in the fast-growing China market."

"The acquisition will strengthen our ability to provide advanced emissions-control technology to motorcycle manufacturers in China as well as the rest of the world," said Paul Lamb, Group Vice President Environmental Technologies in BASF's Catalysts division. "REEcat holds a competitive position for motorcycle catalyst manufacturing and provides excellent service to its customers," said Lamb. "The acquisition is a perfect complement to our continuous effort to help our customers to be more successful."

Global motorcycle production is expected to grow at 5 percent annually through 2011, with China expected to produce more than 40 percent of all motorcycles. In 2008, China will adopt Euro III emissions regulations, which call for significant reductions of hydrocarbon, NOx (oxides of nitrogen) and CO (carbon monoxide) emissions from two-wheel vehicles. These tighter clean air regulations will cause demand for emissions systems to grow faster than overall motorcycle production rates worldwide.

Founded in 1991, REEcat is a pioneer developer of mobile emission-control technologies in China. The company manufactures and sells catalysts and systems for motorcycles and small engines. The company has a manufacturing plant and a research and development center in Guilin, and sales offices in Guangdong and Chongqing, China.

BASF Catalysts LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of BASF Corporation, is the world's leading supplier of environmental and process catalysts. The group offers exceptional expertise in the development of technologies that protect the air we breathe, produce the fuels that power our world and ensure efficient production of a wide variety of chemicals, plastics, adsorbents and other products. Further information on BASF Catalysts is available on the Internet at www.basf-catalysts.com.

2006/12/13　BASF

BASF expands MDI production capacity
・World's largest MDI complex with annual capacity of 560,000 metric tons at BASF's Antwerp Verbund site
・Demand forecast to grow by 6 percent per year

BASF is expanding its production complex for diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) in Antwerp, Belgium, to make it the largest of its type in the world. In the second quarter of 2007, the annual capacity of the two-train plant at BASF's Antwerp Verbund site is to be expanded from 450,000 to 560,000 metric tons. At the same time, BASF plans to construct two plants at the site for the MDI precursors aniline and mononitrobenzene. The plants will have capacities of 180,000 metric tons (aniline) and 280,000 metric tons (mononitrobenzene) and are scheduled to start operations simultaneously with the MDI expansion. The necessary construction work for these two new plants has already been largely completed.

"We expect global demand for MDI to increase and are therefore expanding our Antwerp plant to create the capacity needed to meet this strong growth," explained Dr. Uwe Hartwig, head of the European regional business unit in BASF's Polyurethanes division. "Through this investment we aim to further strengthen our position as a leading and reliable producer of polyurethane basic products and systems. Antwerp is an important platform to serve our MDI customers and system houses, not only in Europe, but also in the Middle East, Africa and Latin America." Antwerp is the only European site at which BASF produces MDI. Outside of Europe, BASF produces MDI at its sites in Geismar, Louisiana; Yeosu, Korea; and Caojing, China.

The isocyanate MDI is an important precursor in the manufacture of polyurethanes - versatile polymers that are used in many applications such as the automotive and construction industries, in appliances such as refrigerators, and for upholstery and footwear. BASF expects the global market for MDI to grow by an average of more than 6 percent in the coming years, with particularly strong growth in Asia. The growth is largely driven by MDI-based insulating materials that play an important role in saving valuable energy, as well as by a number of innovative applications such as SPS (sandwich plate systems) and binders to reinforce dikes (ElastocoastR).

In August 2006, BASF and its partners started up an integrated isocyanates complex at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park in Caojing, China. The company is also considering to build a further MDI plant in China that would start production in 2010 onward.

2006/12/15　BASF

BASF、独デグサ社建設用化学品事業の統合計画を発表
・ 組織体制を大幅に能率化
・ 研究フェアブントを強化
・ 2010 年までに 年間平均1 億ユーロのシナジー効果を実現

BASF（本社：ドイツ ルートヴィッヒスハーフェン）は本日、デグサ社（本社：ドイツ デュッセルドルフ）から2006 年7 月1 日付けで買収した建設用化学品事業のBASF への統合計画を発表しました。
BASF 取締役のアンドレアス・クライマイヤーは次のように述べています。
「建設用化学品事業はすでに、BASF の一部として優れた実績をあげています。今後の戦略的な対策により、BASF は継続的に市場平均を上回る成果をあげ、増収増益を目指します。研究開発ネットワークをさらに強化し、革新的な製品や顧客志向のシステムを開発して参ります」。
BASF では、旧デグサ社事業をBASF 内で新しく設立した「建設用化学品事業本部」に統合致しました。現在推進中の組織再編により、この事業本部は、2007年1 月1 日付けで、以下の5 つの地域事業本部から構成されます。
�@コンストラクション・システムズ・ヨーロッパ
�Aアドミクスチャー・システムズ・ヨーロッパ
�Bコンストラクション・ケミカルズ・ナフタ
�Cコンストラクション・ケミカルズ・アジア・パシフィック
�Dコンストラクション・ケミカルズ・サウス・アメリカ
なお、旧デグサ社の管理業務の大半は、BASF の各地域のプラットフォームに移管されます。また、建設用化学品事業本部の拠点は、トロストベルグから、ルートヴィッヒスハーフェンに移されます。
BASF の建設用化学品事業部長であるベルンハルト・ホフマンは次のように述べています。
「今回の組織改編により、建設用化学品事業がBASF の世界的なフェアブント（ネットワーク）に完全に統合されます。これにより、BASF をこの分野での世界のリーディングカンパニーにするという我々の目標を達成するための必要な力と柔軟性が得られました。来年以降、全従業員が一丸となって最善をつくします」。

今回の完全統合の主なポイントは、以下の通りです。
・ ドイツのトロストベルグで推進している無機化学品ポリマーの研究開発は、BASF の研究フェアブントに組み込み、今後拡大致します。
・ ドイツのオルデンブルグとメミンゲンで建築用塗料と工業用塗料を製造するレリウス社（デグサ社の欧州関連会社）は、ウォールシステム(一戸建ての外壁システム)の事業以外、BASF の塗料事業本部に統合されます。レリウス社のウォールシステムの事業は、BASF の建設用化学品事業本部で展開致します。
・ 2006 年にデグサ社と米エンゲルハード社から買収した油田用化学品事業と関係するマーケティング及び、開発活動は、BASF のパフォーマンスケミカルズ事業本部内に新設した「グローバル・オイルフィールド・ソリューションズ」部門で今後、展開いたします。

BASF では、今回の組織再編や購買の一括化、およびIT システムの標準化等の対策により、2010 年までに年間平均で約1 億ユーロのシナジー効果が得られるとともに、全世界で約200 人の雇用を削減致します。統合に伴う一時費用は、約7,500 万ユーロを見込んでいます。

2007/2/12 Basf

BASF to build new DHDPS plant in Ludwigshafen

Production capacity of 6000 metric tons per year
Feedstock for the high-performance plastic Ultrason

In mid-January of 2007, BASF started the construction of a new plant for the production of the base material DHDPS in Ludwigshafen, Germany. The plant will have an annual production capacity of 6,000 metric tons and is expected to go on line in mid-2008. DHDPS (dihydroxy diphenyl sulfone) is a feedstock for the manufacture of the high-performance plastic Ultrason(R) E (polyether sulfone: PES) that BASF has been producing in Ludwigshafen since the early 1990s.

"The global business with Ultrason has been extremely successful. The growth rates have been between 20 and 30 percent for a number of years now. This is why the construction of the DHDPS plant is an important investment, serving to improve backward integration and helping us to enhance the value-added chain," explains Dr. Harald Lauke, head of BASF's Performance Polymers Operating Division.

Due to the high demand, the production capacity of the Ultrason plant in Ludwigshafen will be increased from the current 6,000 to 12,000 metric tons per year. Therefore, the need for DHDPS is so large that it pays off for BASF to invest in its own DHDPS plant. The entire quantity of the material made in this new plant will be employed to make the plastic. Up until now, BASF had been purchasing the DHDPS needed for the manufacture of Ultrason from outside sources.

New process for the production of DHDPS
DHDPS is produced by means of a new, complex process developed by BASF itself. Implementing the research findings in a large-scale plant as well as obtaining the requisite high-quality DHDPS for further processing into Ultrason posed a great challenge to the researchers. Assistance for the plastics experts came from BASF's integrated network, the "Verbund": "Our colleagues from Leather Chemicals have extensive know-how when it comes to the production of DHDPS, which has been made so far in a small plant and in a different grade for a completely different application purpose, namely, for tanning leather. We collaborated with them to transfer the new process to an industrial-scale plant," explains Matthias Dietrich, head of BASF's UltrasonR global business unit.

Plastics bearing the brand name Ultrason are employed, for instance, for the reflectors of automobile headlights, in the coolant and oil circulation systems of engines, in numerous electrical applications as well as in aeronautics. These plastics lend themselves very well for use at high temperatures of up to 220°C [428°F].

2007/3/20

BASF Breaks Ground In China For Two New Manufacturing Plants

BASF broke ground for two new plants in Pudong, near Shanghai in China, which will manufacture polyacrylate polymers and specialty chemicals for leather tanning. The plants will provide customers in the growing Chinese market with a reliable supply of high-quality chemicals. The two facilities are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2008. Investment details were not disclosed.

The polyacrylate polymers plant will have a minimum capacity of 30,000 metric tons per year, while the plant for specialty chemicals for leather tanning will have a minimum annual capacity of 12,000 metric tons of products in liquid or powder form. A spray dryer with a capacity of 10,000 metric tons per year is part of the investment. The new plants will be located next to BASF's existing facilities for polyacrylate polymers and leather chemicals in Pudong. 浦東

The polyacrylate polymers marketed under the trademark Sokalan（R） are synthetic water-soluble polymers 水溶性ポリマーused in the laundry, paper, water treatment and textile industries. The specialty chemicals for leather tanning carry the trademarks Basyntan(R), Relugan(R) and Tamol(R).

BASF today (March 20, 2007) also inaugurated its polyisocyanate plant at the Shanghai Chemical Industrial Park in Caojing, which will serve the entire Asia Pacific market. The plant has an annual capacity of 8,000 metric tons and its product is marketed under the trademark Basonat(R). Construction work began in June 2005. Polyisocyanates are raw materials used in the manufacture of automotive, industrial and wood paints.

"Our investments in performance chemicals products at Caojing and Pudong will further strengthen our close partnership with our customers especially in Asia Pacific," said Patrick Prevost, President of BASF's Performance Chemicals division. "By investing in additional local production capacity we will be able to react more flexibly to fast changing market conditions and to supply our customers more reliably with short lead time."

"The chemical market in Asia Pacific is the world's largest and is expected to grow 4 to 4.5 percent annually through 2015. Our new manufacturing facilities in Shanghai give us an excellent competitive edge to participate in the rapid growth of the chemical industry in the region," said Dr. Wolfgang Hapke, President of Market and Business Development, BASF Asia Pacific. "We are now moving even closer to our goal of achieving 20 percent of group sales in the chemicals businesses in Asia Pacific by 2010, with 70 percent coming from local production."

---

BASF 2004/8/31　

BASF plans to invest in a polyurethanes specialties site in Shanghai

・Site in Pudong, Shanghai establishes a new level of closeness to customers
・System house, product development and TPU production at a single site
・Chinese polyurethanes market expected to grow by about 10 percent per year in the next 10 years

2007/3/21　BASF

BASF and Monsanto Announce R&D and Commercialization Collaboration Agreement in Plant Biotechnology

・Agreement aimed at developing higher-yielding crops that are more tolerant to adverse environmental conditions such as drought
・Potential $1.5 billion/Euro1.2 billion devoted to joint pipeline over life of the collaboration
・First products to be commercialized in the first half of the next decade

BASF and Monsanto Company today announced a long-term joint research and development (R&D) and commercialization collaboration in plant biotechnology that will focus on the development of high yielding crops and crops that are more tolerant to adverse environmental conditions such as drought. The collaboration is effective immediately.

Over the life of the collaboration, the two companies will dedicate a joint budget of potentially $1.5 billion/Euro1.2 billion to fund a dedicated pipeline of yield and stress tolerance traits for corn, soybeans, cotton and canola. The joint pipeline will include the companies' existing and planned yield and stress tolerance programs and be comprised of projects generated by independent plant biotechnology discovery and research from each company. The first product developed as part of this collaboration is expected to be commercialized in the first half of the next decade.

"We are pleased to be able to work with BASF in order to enhance our ability to identify and commercialize new traits that have the potential to bring substantial value to farmers," said Robb Fraley, Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of Monsanto. "By broadening the pipeline of potential traits, exchanging technology and sharing risk, this collaboration can accelerate the discovery of next-generation technologies for the farm and effectively double the risk-adjusted net present value of Monsanto's yield and stress trait technology pipeline."

"We are excited about the collaboration with Monsanto, which is a strong partner with outstanding capabilities," said Peter Oakley, Member of BASF's Board of Executive Directors responsible for Agriculture, Health and Nutrition. "This is a great step forward in bringing to farmers higher-yielding crops that help them to meet the increasing demand in both the food as well as renewable resources segments."

Under this collaboration:

Monsanto decided to collaborate with BASF because the company is excellently positioned to provide traits as a series of successive upgrades within a particular crop. For BASF, Monsanto's track record of commercializing traits and breeding desirable germplasm ensures that BASF's innovations quickly reach the widest base of farmers.

Additional collaboration agreed
In addition to today's collaboration, the companies also announced that they have entered into a separate development and commercialization collaboration to research methods to control the soybean cyst nematode, a parasitic worm that can limit and destroy yields for soybean farmers.

Both collaborations will be performed by Monsanto and BASF Plant Science, the plant biotechnology company of BASF.

Additional Information
Presentations related to today's announcement may be accessed by visiting Monsanto Company's Web site at www.monsanto.com or BASF's Web site at www.basf.com.

In conjunction with this announcement, BASF and Monsanto will hold a joint conference call for investors and media. The call is scheduled for 9 a.m. EDT (2 p.m. CET) today, Wednesday, March 21, 2007. Presentation slides and a simultaneous audio webcast of the conference call may be accessed by visiting the companies' web sites at www.monsanto.com and clicking on "Investor Information" or www.basf.de/share. Visitors may need to download Windows Media Player? prior to listening to the webcast. Following the live broadcast, a replay of the webcast will be available on the Monsanto and the BASF web sites for three weeks.

About Monsanto
Monsanto is an agriculture company. The company is a leading provider of technology-based solutions and agricultural products that improve farm productivity and food quality. Monsanto is committed to investing in products that can make a difference for its farmer customers and the land they farm. The company uses plant breeding, plant biotechnology and other applications of modern science to support its commitment to agriculture and the farmers that feed, clothe and fuel our growing world. For more information on Monsanto, see www.monsanto.com.

About BASF Plant Science
BASF founded BASF Plant Science in 1998 as its own biotechnology company. BASF Plant Science coordinates a research and development platform in Europe and North America with about 700 employees working to optimize crops for the following sectors: more efficient agriculture, renewable raw materials for specialty products and healthier nutrition for humans and animals.

BASF Plant Science focuses on second- and third-generation plant biotechnology products and has a strong discovery platform for agronomically important traits. The company's program is based on several technology platforms with innovative discovery approaches currently not used by any other company. These include high-throughput phenotyping at CropDesign in Ghent, Belgium, and high-throughput metabolic profiling at Metanomics in Berlin.

To find out more about BASF Plant Science, please see www.basf.com/biotechnology.

About BASF
BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals to crude oil and natural gas. As a reliable partner to virtually all industries, BASF's high-value products and intelligent system solutions help its customers to be more successful. BASF develops new technologies and uses them to meet the challenges of the future and open up additional market opportunities. It combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility, thus contributing to a better future. BASF has over 95,000 employees and posted sales of ?52.6 billion/$66.1 billion in 2006. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA), New York (BF) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

日本経済新聞　2007/3/22

独ＢＡＳＦ、米モンサントとバイオテクノロジーで提携

　化学大手の独ＢＡＳＦは21日、農産物のバイオテクノロジー分野で、米農業化学大手、モンサントとの提携に合意したと発表した。地球温暖化の影響が広がる中で、収穫量が多く、干ばつなど異常気象への耐性も強い農産物を共同で研究・開発し、世界規模で販売する。両社は合計で12億ユーロ（約1900億円）の研究開発費を投じる。

　対象となるのは、今後も世界的に大きな需要が見込まれるトウモロコシ、大豆、綿花、菜種の4種類の農産物。遺伝子組み換えの技術などを持ち寄り、共同で商品化を早める狙いがある。2015年をメドに提携の第1弾となる共同開発品をモンサントの販売網を活用して売り出す計画だ。

2007/3/30 BASF

BASF discontinues lysine business

2007/4/13 Platts

BASF to debottleneck Antwerp cracker mid Aug to end Sep

Germany's BASF has divulged the dates of its planned debottlenecking of its naphtha steam cracker at Antwerp, Belgium. "The turnaround will start in the middle of August and last until the end of September," a company source said Friday.
The Eur200 million ($246 mil) expansion project would make the plant the largest single-train steam cracker in Europe by boosting its ethylene capacity from 800,000 mt/yr to 1.08 mil mt/yr.
Additional olefins and aromatics production from the expansion would be absorbed by existing and future internal demand, said Dr Werner Pratorius, president of BASF's petrochemical division.
"As in the past, part of the ethylene output of the cracker will be marketed either directly or preferably via heterogeneous swap arrangements for other chemicals. As no major new cracker projects are foreseen in Europe until at least 2009 and in view of projected average demand growth of 1 to 1.5% per year, the additional ethylene volumes will fit into the market," said Dr Werner Pratorius, president of BASF's petrochemical division at the time of the expansion's announcement in August 2005.

May 18, 2007 BASF

BASF opens new engineering plastics compounding plant in Shanghai

• Annual capacity of 45,000 metric tons
• Strong growth of Asia Pacific engineering plastics market expected to continue

BASF today celebrated the inauguration of its engineering plastics compounding plant at its Pudong site in Shanghai, China. The new facility came on stream in March 2007 and is a world-scale plant with an annual capacity of 45,000 metric tons. It is one of the most modern compounding plants in the world today, with the highest environmental standards and the most efficient production capabilities available.

"Our strategy is clear: We want to continue expanding our position as one of the leading producers of engineering plastics in the growing markets of Asia and to be the preferred business partner for our customers," said Dr. Harald Lauke, President of BASF's Performance Polymers division. "With this new compounding plant, we show our solid commitment to our customers in China and Asia Pacific. We gain flexibility to better serve our customers by reacting more rapidly to their needs and by ensuring a stable supply at short lead times close to the point of consumption."

In the next 10 years, the Asia Pacific market for engineering plastics is expected to grow on average by about seven percent per year. In China this growth is expected to be higher.

"We have ambitious targets in Asia Pacific: by 2010, we aim to achieve 20 percent of our group sales and earnings in the chemicals businesses in Asia Pacific; 70 percent of those sales are to come from local production," said Dr. Martin Brudermüller, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft, responsible for Asia. "This new plant will make a powerful contribution to these targets."

Alongside this new plant in Shanghai, BASF has similar compounding facilities in Malaysia and Korea, which are part of BASF's global network of engineering plastics and compounding plants. This network covers other countries in Europe, North and Central America. With the new plant, BASF's total compounding capacity in Asia exceeds 100,000 metric tons per annum.

BASF has also set up a Technical Center for engineering plastics in Shanghai, where its engineers design and optimize new engineering plastic parts in close cooperation with customers. The development support ranges from computer aided engineering in the initial design phase to component tests in the trial and launch phase. Further services comprise a state-of-the-art molding laboratory offering processing seminars to customers. This Technical Center in Shanghai is part of BASF's global and Asian network for engineering plastics ? other such centers operate in Greater Nagoya in Japan and Seoul in South Korea.

Engineering plastics are used, for example, in automotive construction as well as the electrical and electronics industries. Some innovative applications include, component mounts, seat structures, oil sump modules, electronic control units, sensors, air intake manifolds, cylinder head covers, air spring and cooling elements as well as roof frames and highly integrated laser-structured electronic devices.

2007/6/12 BASF

BASF considers construction of MDI plant in Chongqing

Plant to have world-scale capacity of 400 kt/a crude MDI
Startup planned from 2010 onward
Investment underlines BASF commitment to China

BASF is considering the construction of a new MDI (diphenylmethane diisocyanate) plant in Chongqing municipality, Western China, to meet growing demand for this product. A corresponding memorandum of cooperation was signed today (June 12, 2007) with Chongqing Chemical and Pharmaceutical Holding (Group) Company and local authorities. BASF will now carry out an in-depth evaluation of the competitiveness of the location. The startup is planned from 2010 onward, and the plant is expected to have a capacity of 400,000 metric tons per year of crude MDI.

“The market for polyurethanes in China is expected to grow at double-digit rates and will become the largest in the world within the next decade,” said Jacques Delmoitiez, President of BASF’s Polyurethanes division. “Following on from the investment in our Caojing MDI/TDI facility, we are moving closer to finalizing the location for our next major polyurethanes investment in China.”

BASF already announced in early 2006 that it was considering building another MDI plant in China with partners. The decision on BASF’s additional joint venture partners has not yet been made, and the final choice of a site for the plant still hinges on a number of factors.

Chongqing is the largest and most populous of China’s municipalities with around 32 million people. It is home to the biggest inland river port in Western China, located on the Yangtze River. It is also a twin city to Dusseldorf, Germany.

BASF is one of the largest foreign chemical investors in China, with sales of over Euro 3.6 billion in 2006 and a workforce of more than 5,500 employees. By 2010, BASF aims to generate 10 percent of its global sales and earnings in its chemical businesses in China.

MDI is an important precursor in the manufacture of polyurethanes ? versatile polymers that are used in the automotive and construction industries, in appliances such as refrigerators, and in footwear.