Following a detailed appraisal, the Cologne district authority has granted Bayer MaterialScience the permit to build and operate the new high-tech facility for the production of the chemical TDI (toluene diisocyanate) at Chempark Dormagen. TDI is needed as a precursor for the manufacture of flexible polyurethane foams to make products such as high-quality foams for mattresses, chairs and car seats.

With an annual capacity of 300,000 metric tons, the future world-scale plant is a key part of a long-term investment strategy at Bayer MaterialScience.

The construction phase of the project will create between 500 and 1,500 additional jobs.