BASF and long-time partner Shandong INOV Polyurethane have signed a framework agreement designed to serve increasing demand from various industries in China and overseas.

As part of the deal, the companies will expand capacities of diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and polytetrahydrofuran (PolyTHF).

MDI and TDI are key raw materials for making polyurethanes, used to improve insulation and save energy in buildings, as well as to make lighter automotive components. PolyTHF is used to make spandex synthetic fiber and polyurethane elastomers.

The agreement will also strengthen their cooperation to develop construction materials and performance materials, further supporting the development of strategic industries.

“This is a win-win strategy which combines BASF’s proven research capabilities with our expertise in production. We are looking forward to working with BASF to produce high-quality chemical products for local and overseas customers along the value chain,” said Xu Jun, INOV’s chairman and general manager.

Headquartered in Zibo, in eastern China’s Shandong province, INOV said it is the country’s leading producer of propylene oxide, downstream derivatives of ethylene oxide and polyurethane.

The companies have been working together for more than a decade. Stephan Kothrade, BASF’s president and chairman, Greater China, said INOV shares its vision to develop sustainable solutions, bringing them together “to meet customers’ increasing needs for advanced materials in various industrial sectors.”