Chemicals manufacturer Huntsman Corp. started commercial operations at its new methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) splitter in mid-July at its existing location in Geismar, LA. With the addition of the $180 million asset, the firm can manufacture a broader array of high value, differentiated grades from crude MDI.

“The new splitter reinforces our strategy of delivering value over volume by creating a more differentiated product portfolio,” Tony Hankins, President of Huntsman’s Polyurethanes division, said in a company release. “It enables us to provide our customers in automotive, furniture, construction, adhesives and coatings markets with more options for innovative, sustainable polyurethanes products.” 

An event was held on July 13 at the Geismar site to mark the project’s completion. Huntsman Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer Peter Huntsman hosted guests including Attorney General of Louisiana Jeff Landry, local officials, key customers, and members of the company’s senior leadership team.

“Our new splitter bridges the gap between our upstream MDI manufacturing assets and the downstream needs of our customers – both domestic and international,” said Jan Buberl, Polyurethanes’ Vice President for the Americas region, in speech at the event. “Our mission is to deliver what our customers need to help them innovate and grow. This investment will strengthen our ability to meet, and exceed, those expectations.”