German diisocyanates major BASF SE has announced its intention to restart production of TDI at its 300,000 metric tons per year plant "in the next few weeks," according to news release.
The company said that production stopped Nov. 22 because of "technical difficulties at the plant." BASF appears to have completed analysis of the damaged equipment which was enclosed in a safety chamber.
BASF added that the damaged reactor will be repaired, and a new reactor will be ordered but this will have a long delivery time and is expected to be completed in 2018. BASF added that it has been supplying customers from its global network of TDI production facilities.
The contract for plant construction was awarded to Fluor Corp. in 2012. The plant started operation in November 2015.
The plant was delayed in 2013 when an explosion occurred on the construction site. BASF declined to comment on whether it was seeking compensation from the original contractor or whether the plant was insured.