BASF announced the successful startup of its new world-scale hexamethylenediamine (HMD) plant in Chalampé, France, construction of which began in 2022. The plant increases BASF’s annual HMD production capacity to 260,000 metric tons.

HMD is a precursor used in the production of high-quality PA 6.6 polymers and coatings raw materials. Among other applications, these products are used in the automotive industry as well as in the production of high-quality fibers.

The plant is an essential component of BASF’s strategic path forward in its polyamide (PA) 6.6 business in Europe. In addition to starting up the new HMD plant, the company is in the final stage of expanding its PA 6.6 production in Freiburg, Germany.

The economic and industrial platform in the Alsace region of France and the direct integration into the main raw material adiponitrile (ADN) provide an ideal setup for the production and supply of HMD. In addition to chemical production assets, BASF operates a state-of-the-art research and development laboratory as well as corresponding infrastructure dedicated to PA 6.6 research at the Chalampé site.

Primary automotive industry uses for HMD include engine components; fuel system components; airbag fabrics; interior components; stuctural parts including gears and bearing; lubricants; and coatings and adhesives. The automotive industry is a leading consumer of HMD, accounting for approximately 50% of the global market share in 2023, driven by the demand for lightweight materials to improve fuel efficiency and meet emission standards.