BASF Launches New Hexamethylenediamine Plant in Chalampé, France

BASF, a global leader in the chemical industry, has officially commenced operations at its new world-scale hexamethylenediamine (HMD) plant located in Chalampé, France. This significant development, announced on June 12, 2025, follows the commencement of construction in 2022 and marks a pivotal expansion in BASF’s production capabilities, increasing its annual HMD production capacity to 260,000 metric tons.

Dr. Stephan Kothrade, a member of the Board of Executive Directors at BASF, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, stating, "This investment underlines BASF’s strong commitment to chemical production in Europe and our determination to support regional growth. It is yet another example of how we put our ‘Winning Ways’ strategy into action to create long-term value for our company and secure our future competitiveness in a volatile economic environment."

The new facility is integral to BASF’s strategy in the polyamide (PA) 6.6 sector, which is critical for various applications, including automotive components and high-quality fibers. Alongside the opening of the HMD plant, BASF is also finalizing the expansion of its PA 6.6 production in Freiburg, Germany. Dr. Ramkumar Dhruva, President of BASF’s Monomers division, stated, "The successful completion of this investment project is a significant step towards our goal of being the leading supplier for HMD and the preferred partner for PA 6.6 in Europe."

The Chalampé site benefits from its strategic location within the Alsace region, facilitating direct access to essential raw materials, particularly adiponitrile (ADN), which is crucial for HMD production. This integration not only optimizes production efficiency but also enhances the supply chain for HMD, ensuring that BASF can meet customer demands for high-quality products reliably.

In addition to its production capabilities, BASF operates an advanced research and development facility at the Chalampé site. This laboratory is dedicated to innovating within the PA 6.6 segment, thus reinforcing BASF’s commitment to research and development in the chemical sector.

HMD serves as a precursor for high-performance PA 6.6 polymers, which are utilized in diverse applications across industries. The automotive sector, in particular, relies on these materials for manufacturing durable and lightweight components.

The establishment of the new HMD plant not only signifies BASF’s expansion in the competitive chemical market but also reflects broader industry trends towards increasing production capabilities within Europe. As global demand for sustainable and high-performance materials rises, BASF is strategically positioned to leverage its enhanced production capacity to fulfill market needs.

The implications of this advancement extend beyond just production metrics. It highlights BASF’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation, aiming to create chemistry for a sustainable future. The company reported sales of €65.3 billion in 2024 and employs approximately 112,000 individuals globally, underscoring its influential role in the international chemical landscape.

In conclusion, the startup of the HMD plant in Chalampé represents a critical milestone for BASF, aligning with its strategic vision to lead in the polyamide market and respond effectively to the evolving demands of various industries. As the global economy continues to shift toward sustainable practices, BASF's investments in production and R&D are poised to enhance its competitive edge and contribute to the green transformation of the chemical sector.