BASF commissioned the steam cracker at its newly built Verbund site in Zhanjiang, South China, completing the start-up as scheduled. Notably, the facility is the first steam cracker globally to operate its main compressors entirely on 100 per cent renewable energy, using electrically driven compressors (eDrives).
Steam Cracker Forms the Core of the Verbund
As the heart of the Verbund concept, the steam cracker supplies essential base chemicals, including ethylene and propylene, to multiple downstream plants at the site. In this process, steam cracks long-chain hydrocarbons such as naphtha or butane, forming the starting point for numerous chemical value chains. The Zhanjiang cracker has an ethylene production capacity of one million metric tonnes per year.
Strengthening BASF’s Value Chains in China
Dr Stephan Kothrade, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE and Chief Technology Officer, said the commissioning significantly strengthens BASF’s diversified value chains in China. He added that the project positions the company to better support customers across a wide range of industries.
Downstream Plants Brought Online
In parallel with the cracker start-up, BASF safely commenced operations at several downstream facilities. Following the recent start-up of propylene-based units, the company has now brought plants producing ethylene oxide, ethylene glycol, and polyethylene into operation, further integrating the site’s production network.
Model for Sustainable Production
Once fully developed, Zhanjiang will become BASF’s third-largest Verbund site worldwide, after Ludwigshafen in Germany and Antwerp in Belgium. Moreover, the site is designed to serve as a benchmark for sustainable chemical production in China and globally. For instance, BASF will supply the site with electricity sourced entirely from renewable energy.
Serving China’s Growing Chemical Market
As per the press release, products from the Zhanjiang Verbund site will primarily cater to customers in China, the world’s largest and fastest-growing chemical market. Through this strategic investment, BASF aims to strengthen its long-term presence in the region while advancing sustainable manufacturing practices.
