BASF Expands Portfolio with Intermediates Featuring a Reduced Carbon Footprint

BASF is expanding its portfolio of intermediates with a reduced product carbon footprint (rPCF). New variants of butanediol (BDO), tetrahydrofuran (THF), PolyTHF® and N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) enable a measurable reduction in CO₂ emissions – without the need to adapt existing processes. In doing so, the company is addressing the growing demand for more sustainable materials in key industries.

The new rPCF products are manufactured at the Verbund site in Ludwigshafen and distributed worldwide. The reduced product carbon footprint (PCF) is achieved through the use of low-emission raw materials and energy-efficient production processes.

Compared to standard products, these variants have at least 10% lower CO₂ emissions – whilst maintaining the same product performance.

The PCF calculation is carried out in accordance with ISO 14067 and the guidelines of 'Together for Sustainability' and is currently undergoing external verification.

With these new intermediates, BASF is helping companies to reduce their Scope 3 emissions across the value chain. This is particularly relevant for sectors such as:

• Automotive and e-mobility
• Pharmaceuticals and medical technology
• Electronics industry
• Textiles and consumer goods industry

A key advantage: the rPCF variants can be used without any changes to existing formulations or production processes.

The chemicals described are essential building blocks in numerous applications:

• BDO serves as a starting material for polymers such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT)
• PolyTHF® is used for elastic fibres (e.g. elastane) and thermoplastic polyurethanes
• THF is an important intermediate in chemical production
• NMP is used in lithium-ion batteries, coatings and specialty chemicals

These materials play a vital role in sectors such as lightweight construction, packaging, mobility and electronics.

By expanding its rPCF portfolio, BASF is strengthening its offering in the fields of sustainable chemistry and the circular economy. Companies gain access to materials that meet environmental requirements whilst remaining economically viable.