BASF ties up with Sibur for polymer solutions

German chemicals giant BASF and Russian petchem company Sibur are collaborating to develop polymer solutions using BASF’s additives at Sibur’s PolyLab R&D centre located in Moscow, Russia.

Both companies say they will work together to leverage on the digital technologies in production and R&D, and to develop a range of polymers using the plastic additives offered by BASF. In addition, BASF will support with its technical expertise the development of new technology tests at PolyLab, the main R&D hub of Sibur Niost, and Sibur’s production facilities. The companies plan to also jointly develop new high-performance additive solutions, focusing on demanding converting conditions for polymers and specifically targeting long term durable goods.

“The new agreement extends our strategic partnership with one of the global chemical majors and unlocks new opportunities for all consumers of polymer products. Combining the extensive knowhow from both companies, we will develop modern synthetic materials that are advanced and sustainable,” said Pavel Lyakhovich, member of the Management Board and Managing Director, OOO Sibur.

Polymers are well-known synthetic materials that are durable, strong, environmentally friendly to be widely used in construction, utilities, automotive, healthcare, food and other industries. The key priority of Sibur’s PolyLab is to promote the use of polymers both to manufacture existing products, and to design novel solutions to drive technological advancement for the relevant industries.

PolyLab will foster the use of recycled materials and the application of polymers in circular economy. For this purpose, samples of new PE and PP grades will be transformed at the centre’s pilot manufacturing lines into pipes, medical goods, films, food packaging, canisters and other products. This will provide a deeper insight into polymers’ properties and their impact on the end product quality to further improve the materials and boost production efficiency.