BASF builds ultra-pure ammonium hydroxide plant in Germany to support European semiconductor growth, advanced chips, and sustainable industry supply chains.
BASF has officially announced plans to construct a state-of-the-art Electronic Grade Ammonium Hydroxide (NH4OH EG) facility in Ludwigshafen, Germany, aimed at supporting critical semiconductor manufacturing processes such as wafer cleaning, etching, and other precision applications. The ultra-pure ammonium hydroxide produced at this new facility will help meet the growing demand for high-quality semiconductor chemicals in Europe, providing a stable and reliable local supply chain for advanced chip production.
This initiative reflects BASF鈥檚 strategic commitment to enhancing supply chain resilience for the European semiconductor sector, which is increasingly vital for maintaining technological leadership in a fast-evolving market. The plant is scheduled to commence operations in 2027, positioning BASF to contribute directly to Europe鈥檚 semiconductor manufacturing ambitions.
The European market is currently experiencing heightened demand for high-purity semiconductor-grade chemicals, driven by the expansion of chip manufacturing facilities across the region. Several new semiconductor plants are either under construction or undergoing significant upgrades, necessitating dependable sources of key materials such as ammonium hydroxide. BASF鈥檚 investment in the new NH4OH EG plant is closely aligned with the company鈥檚 collaborations with strategic partners, including major chip producers who are establishing new manufacturing capacities in Europe. These partnerships are built on long-term customer-supplier commitments, ensuring mutual growth and sustained supply chain stability.
The NH4OH EG produced at Ludwigshafen will play a critical role in enabling the next generation of semiconductor technologies, particularly advanced node chips that are essential for high-tech industries such as automotive, artificial intelligence, telecommunications, and beyond. By providing these high-purity chemicals locally, BASF strengthens Europe鈥檚 technological self-reliance while supporting industrial growth in strategically important sectors.
Commenting on the investment, Jens Liebermann, Senior Vice President, Electronic Materials at BASF, stated, 鈥淲e are grateful for our customers鈥� trust and proud to be a long-term strategic partner in supporting their growth ambitions across Europe.鈥� Gops Pillay, President of BASF鈥檚 Global Operating Division, added, 鈥淭his new facility further expands our capabilities and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to serving the semiconductor industry while reinforcing our presence in the region.鈥�
In addition to enhancing supply reliability, BASF emphasizes sustainability and innovation in its operations. The new Ludwigshafen plant will not only provide high-quality chemicals but also support environmentally responsible practices in semiconductor production. BASF鈥檚 expertise in supplying ultra-pure single bulk chemicals and specialized formulations remains crucial for processes including wafer cleaning, etching, photoresist application, metal deposition, and chemical mechanical planarization.
By strengthening Europe鈥檚 semiconductor ecosystem and supporting advanced chip production, BASF continues to play a pivotal role in enabling technological progress while contributing positively to the broader European economy.
