BASF and Aspen Aerogels have expanded their six-year old collaboration with the signing of two agreements designed to increase market penetration, enhance product profitability and facilitate the development of next-generation materials.

Under an exclusive agreement that will run through 2027, Aspen will supply its Spaceloft A2 insulation product for BASF to incorporate in its aerogel-enhanced Slentex wall system for the building materials market. In turn, BASF will invest a “low double-digit million” sum in the construction of Aspen’s second manufacturing plant in Statesboro, Georgia, USA, and become a base load customer for the additional capacity.

Initially, the agreement will support BASF’s efforts to drive growth of its Slentex wall system in the global market. BASF may also directly sell or incorporate Spaceloft A2 into other systems for applications in certain building, transportation, consumer and industrial markets worldwide.

In addition, a joint development agreement will establish a framework to develop new aerogel products and technologies, accelerating Aspen’s diversification into the building materials market. BASF will gain targeted access to Aspen’s technology platform while Aspen will be able to use BASF’s technical expertise, sales channels and financial resources.

Raimar Jahn, president of BASF’s Performance Materials division, said the new agreements would accelerate the global adoption of aerogel technology as an eco-efficient insulation material. The partnership dates back to 2010 when BASF Venture Capital made an equity investment in Aspen and development work subsequently led to the commercialization of Spaceloft A2.