BASF Begins Commercial Production of Flame-Retardant TPU in Shanghai
BASF has officially commenced commercial production of flame-retardant thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) at its expanded facility in Shanghai, China. This strategic milestone, achieved in early March 2026, marks a significant increase in the company’s capacity to supply high-performance polymers directly to the growing Asia Pacific market.
Strengthening the Asia Pacific Footprint
The new production line is dedicated to BASF’s Elastollan® series, specifically optimizing the manufacture of non-halogenated flame-retardant TPU grades. By establishing this capacity in Shanghai, BASF aims to implement a robust “local-for-local” supply chain strategy. This approach significantly reduces lead times for customers in China and the broader region, particularly those in the automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial cabling sectors.
The Shanghai site serves as a crucial hub for BASF’s Performance Materials division. The proximity of production to the company’s Innovation Center allows for rapid collaboration with local manufacturers to develop customized material solutions that meet stringent regional safety standards and performance requirements.
Advanced Material Properties
Elastollan® TPU is renowned in the polymer industry for its exceptional mechanical profile. The flame-retardant grades produced at the new line offer a critical combination of high tensile strength, superior abrasion resistance, and excellent flexibility across a wide range of temperatures.
Crucially, the material utilizes non-halogenated flame retardants, which aligns with evolving regulatory standards regarding smoke toxicity and environmental safety. These properties make the material ideal for demanding applications such as cable sheathing for electric vehicles (EVs), charging infrastructure, and complex automation cables where durability and fire safety are non-negotiable.
This expansion underscores BASF’s commitment to advancing polymer technologies that support the rapid electrification and industrial modernization trends currently driving the Asian market.
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