Bayer MaterialScience makes multi-million-euro investments at Leverkusen

With the latest equipment for product development and the expansion of its production capacity, materials manufacturer BMS has outfitted a technical centre for the advancement of premium foams with ultra-modern machines and systems. An additional production plant for coating raw materials has also come on stream to supply demand from another global growth market. The total investment in both is more than EUR 45 million.

According to BMS, these steps illustrate the company’s adherence to its market-oriented investment policy. "This allows us to supply key industries more precisely and with higher volumes of exactly the products they need," said Patrick Thomas, CEO of Bayer MaterialScience. "Furthermore," he added, "the company is expanding its competence in developing new applications and manufacturing processes for its materials in close collaboration with customers."

Many challenges can be met with polyurethane foam, including the insulation of buildings and refrigeration systems, or for components that make cars lighter, more fuel efficient and more comfortable. As a leading manufacturer of polyurethane precursors, BMS will test innovative solutions and processes at its new, EUR 10 million, technical centre in Leverkusen. In the medium to long term, the company expects the global polyurethane market to continue growing at an average annual rate of about 5 %.

The global market for coating and adhesive raw materials is also on a growth course, and will likely increase by an average of roughly 4 % per year. To meet the rising demand, BMS has expanded its production capacity for the precursors HDI and IPDI for polyurethane based coatings. The company has invested 18 months and EUR 35 million in the construction of the newly commissioned multi-purpose plant in Leverkusen. The production process used is very environmentally compatible and highly efficient.

"With the production facility and the new technical centre, we have set the course for strengthening our leading position as a developer and manufacturer of premium, chemistry-based materials," said Thomas. "Despite the current challenges, such as high energy and raw material costs and rising global competition, BMS continues to have good prospects for long-term, profitable growth."