BASF opens new polyurethane applications technology centre in Russia

Like the system house in Nishnekamsk, which went into operation in 2000, this site will also be a part of the BASF joint venture Elastokam with the Russian company OAO Nishnekamskneftechim (NKNC). The area of 2,000 m² houses a modern technology centre and office space, alongside storage areas and a test laboratory.

According to BASF, the centre will provide technical services and sales know-how for polyurethane systems to serve customers all over Russia and other CIS countries. Equipment installed will make it possible to test PU materials for a wide range of applications in the automotive and construction industries, as well as in CASE related areas. Training programmes and practical seminars for customers and partners will also take place within the technology centre, says BASF.

“With our investment into a second Russian site we emphasise the significance of this region for BASF and show our local customers that we want to be their preferred partner by supporting their growth requirements“ stated Raimar Jahn, President BASF Polyurethanes. “This investment is part of the systematic implementation of our successful worldwide strategy of having sites that are close to the customer which will strengthen our leadership position in the polyurethanes market.”

Dr. Uwe Hartwig, Senior Vice President BASF Polyurethanes Europe, said: “This new site will further strengthen our partnership-based customer relations in Russia, particularly in the St. Petersburg and Moscow region. In this way we have created a perfect basis for our customers success in a strongly growing market for polyurethane applications”.

Elastokam is known for 12 years in the Russian PU market. During this period the company has gained knowledge of local customers’ requirements and technical expectations. Together with its customers the joint venture has developed a number of PU systems, adapted to the demands of certain production lines: Elastopor is successfully applied for thermal insulation of pipelines, Elastocool responds to complex technical requirements of local producers of refrigerators and other.