China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation ("Sinopec") and BASF have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to further strengthen their cooperation by jointly exploring the possibility of building a world-scale iso-nonanol (INA) plant in Maoming Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone, Guangdong, China. The final scope of the investment will be determined following the outcome of the joint feasibility study, which is expected by the end of 2012.

Under the terms of the MOU, the two parties will evaluate the technical, commercial and economic viability of jointly owning and operating a world-scale facility for the production of INA under a 50-50 joint venture agreement.

INA is used as the feedstock for the production of next generation plasticizers, e.g., di-iso-nonyl phthalate (DINP) and non-phthalate plasticizer Hexamoll? DINCH?. DINP is widely used as a plasticizer in industrial applications such as automotive, wires and cables, flooring, building and construction, while Hexamoll? DINCH? is the plasticizer of choice for sensitive applications. 

The agreement was signed in Shenzhen, China, by Mr. Yu Xizhi, President of Sinopec Maoming Petrochemical Company and Dr. Albert Heuser, President BASF Asia Pacific, on July 30.

Mr. Yu Xizhi, President of Sinopec Maoming Petrochemical Company commented, "This cooperation not only builds on the valued relationship Sinopec already holds with BASF, but also goes to highlight the success of Sinopec's international partnerships. We are confident that this development will provide an even broader range of chemical products to the South China region, as well as across the country, contributing to a sustainable future."

"As the Chinese market continues its rapid growth with booming demand for plasticizers, the INA investment in Maoming serves the increasing demand for next generation plasticizers. After many years of successful cooperation with Sinopec, this project builds on our strong partnership and offers an exciting opportunity for BASF in China. Maoming provides excellent integration possibilities into the refinery structure, which will contribute further to the overall environmental and economic efficiency of the project," said Dr. Albert Heuser, President of BASF Asia Pacific.

Sinopec and BASF jointly operate BASF-YPC Co. Ltd., a 50-50 joint venture between Sinopec and BASF in Nanjing, China. As one of China's largest petrochemical joint ventures, it produces a wide range of high quality chemicals for the rapidly growing Chinese market.