Bayer unit bolsters polymer project

SHANGHAI: Bayer MaterialScience, a unit of German industrial giant Bayer, has committed to continuing its investment in a toluene diisocyanate (TDI) project in Shanghai with the goal of expanding the production site, a top company executive said.

The company, one of the world's largest polymer makers, is expected to have the mechanical completion of the TDI facility project completed by the end of 2010, with an initial production capacity of 250,000 tons per year, said Michael Koenig, president of Bayer MaterialScience Group China.

The company is also hoping to reduce energy consumption by 40 to 60 percent through advanced technology in the manufacturing of TDI. The chemical is often used in the manufacture of flexible polyurethane foams used in furniture, bedding and automotive and airline seats.