Bayer MaterialScience Acquires Aniline Facility

Pittsburgh, PA, March 05, 2014 --(PR.com)-- Bayer MaterialScience LLC has acquired DuPont’s Baytown, Texas, aniline production facility. With the acquisition, Bayer assumes responsibility for the facility’s direct operating personnel. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Aniline is a primary feedstock used to manufacture methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), a versatile chemical used to produce rigid polyurethane foams for insulation in the construction industry, as well as coatings, adhesives, sealants, elastomers and binders.

The aniline facility is located within Bayer’s Baytown plant – the company’s largest manufacturing facility in the U.S. and a critical asset in its global manufacturing portfolio. Adding aniline production fully integrates the Baytown plant along the MDI value chain for enhanced production flexibility.

“North America is poised for strong MDI growth driven by recovery in the construction market, energy code advancement and home comfort trends,” said Craig Caputo, vice president – polyurethanes regional product manager, Bayer MaterialScience LLC.

“This strategic acquisition positions Bayer to meet this growing demand while further strengthening our leadership in the polyurethane industry.”

The acquisition also reinforces Bayer’s commitment to the Baytown facility. Over the last two years, Bayer has invested roughly $120 million in process, reliability, quality and environmental improvements at the plant, which in addition to MDI produces toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and polycarbonate.

About Bayer MaterialScience LLC:
Bayer MaterialScience LLC is one of the leading producers of high-performance plastics in North America and is part of the global Bayer MaterialScience business with approximately 14,500 employees at 30 production sites around the world and 2012 sales of 11.5 billion euros. The company manufactures high-tech polymer materials and develops innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction, medical, and sports and leisure industries. Sustainability is central to Bayer MaterialScience LLC's business and is based around the key areas of innovation, product stewardship, social responsibility and respect for the environment.