#United States #BASF #MDI #Geismar

BASF's Latest Milestone: New MDI Production Facility

BASF, a leader in chemicals, has officially inaugurated its ambitious $1 billion methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) production facility at the Verbund site in Geismar, Louisiana. This event, held on November 11, 2026, signifies not only the successful completion of BASF's largest investment project in North America but also the expansion of the company’s capability to serve its diverse customer base.

The Geismar facility expansion nearly doubles the site's annual production capacity to around 600,000 metric tons, reinforcing BASF’s position as the largest producer of MDI in North America. Dr. Markus Kamieth, BASF’s Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, emphasized the company's commitment to the U.S. market, stating, "With our new world-scale MDI facility in Geismar, we are strengthening our core businesses, driving innovation, and bringing more production closer to our customers."

Importance of MDI in Modern Industry

MDI is a vital raw material used in the creation of polyurethanes, which are essential for a multitude of applications, including construction materials, automotive parts, appliances, and footwear. The introduction of this new facility is expected to significantly boost BASF's capability to meet the growing demands of these industries, assuring customers of a reliable and local supply source.

Ramkumar Dhruva, President of BASF’s Monomer Division, highlighted the significance of this expansion: "This significant investment reflects our confidence in the continued growth of the polyurethane market and ensures that our customers benefit from a highly reliable, competitive, and locally-integrated supply source for years to come."

Project Execution and Technological Advancements

The project was carried out in three phases, beginning in 2018. The first phase saw the commissioning of a new MDI synthesis unit in 2020, followed by further expansions in 2021. The final phase introduced advanced technology, including new upstream units and a splitter, which not only improved production flexibility but also ensured the highest safety standards were met. This comprehensive enhancement allows BASF to maintain a competitive edge in MDI supply across North America.

As part of the upgrade, BASF also enhanced its aniline production capabilities at the Geismar site. This step synergizes with the overall goal of improving the integrated value chain at Geismar, ensuring availability for North American customers across various sectors, including agricultural chemicals and dyes.

Geismar’s Strategic Role in BASF’s Operations

The Geismar site is recognized as BASF’s largest Verbund site in the United States. It benefits from integrated infrastructure and operational synergies that promote efficiency. BASF operates more than 150 locations throughout the U.S., with approximately 90% of its €13.1 billion sales originating from domestically manufactured products in 2025.

BASF’s ambition to catalyze the green transformation of chemistry is evident in its operations. With 95,000 employees contributing globally, BASF is set on combining economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility.

For further details and photos related to the new MDI facility, visit BASF's official page.

The Future Beyond Geismar

As global demand for sustainable and energy-efficient products continues to rise, investments like the one in Geismar position BASF as a leader in the chemical industry. As they celebrate this major milestone, the company underlines its dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction, paving the way for future developments in North America and beyond.