Performance Polymers
Competence in Polyurethanes
- BASF is one of the worldwide leaders in polyurethanes (PU)
-
More than 50 years of polyurethane expertise
In the world of polyurethanes (PU), BASF is the leading manufacturer and supplier of systems, specialities and basic raw materials. BASF, with its network of almost 40 PU System Houses and an extensive product and service portfolio, is the supplier of choice for customers in a multitude of industries.
BASF's world-scale plants in all regions of the world secure its market-leading position in basic PU raw materials.
Polyurethanes make life safer and more comfortable, and contribute in a sustainable way to the conservation of energy resources.
Polyurethanes enable architects to insulate buildings better and they enable vehicle manufacturers to improve the aesthetics of their vehicles whilst reducing weight and thereby improving fuel consumption. Manufacturers of shoes, mattresses and pillows, furniture, household appliances and sports equipment rely on the many advantages of Polyurethanes, backed up by the knowledge and experience of BASF's experts around the globe.
BASF in Alfreton
From its purpose-built facility at Alfreton in the heart of England, BASF develops, manufactures and markets PU systems, designed to meet specific customer requirements.
Once in production, the customer can continue to rely on our technical expertise to provide support with all aspects of processing, ensuring the best possible quality.
About Polyurethanes - From System to Finished Product
PU basically consists of two raw materials, isocyanate and polyol, which are obtained from crude oil. Mixing the two process-ready, fluid-system components – which contain various auxiliary materials such as catalysts, foaming agents or stabilisers – gives rise to a reactive compound. Depending on the formula and proportions of the mix, the properties of the polyurethane produced can be precisely regulated – hard, soft, integral, cellular (foamed) or compact.
History
1961: Foundation of the company (under the ownership of the Reuter Group)
1971 – 1972: Acquisition of companies by BASF Group
1978: Merger of Elastollan Ltd. and Elastomer Products to form ELASTOGRAN U.K. LTD.
1980: Move to Alfreton, Derbyshire
2010: Name changed to BASF Polyurethanes U.K. Limited
2014: BASF Polyurethanes U.K.Limited integrated into BASF plc
Site development
1980 – 1986: New technical building, extension of warehouse and production facilities
1989: Extension of polyol production plant
1991 – 1994: New isocyanate and prepolymer plants; extension to technical building
1995: New pentane plant
2000: Automation of blending vessels
Location
BASF plc
Wimsey Way, Somercotes
Alfreton, Derbyshire DE55 4NL
GREAT BRITAIN
Phone: ++44 177360-7161
Fax: ++44 1773540-429