BASF launches 'world's first' TPP pellets

BASF has launched a new pellet form of triphenylphosphine (TPP) that minimises dust and improves handling and processing.

Said to be the first and only company to offer TPP in pellet form, BASF makes the product at a new dedicated manufacturing plant in Ludwigshafen using an improved process.

'Demand for TPP is growing worldwide,' said Dr Dieter Kovar, BASF business director, marketing, ac-ids and specialty intermediates. 'This encouraging trend prompted BASF to double its capacity.' BASF's new TPP plant is the largest of its kind in the world and came on stream in January 2004. 'BASF is the only manufacturer that operates a single-line TPP plant with continuous product processing,' said Kovar. 'Cross-contamination is no longer a concern.'

Until now, the standard commercial form of TPP has been flakes, which typically stick together in their container. BASF's new TPP pellets are said to pour without difficulty, dramatically reducing dusting and resulting in easier, cleaner product handling.

In addition to pellets, BASF markets TPP in a melt formulation, which can be pumped, making dosing easier than for a solid. TPP has many applications, including vitamin synthesis and production of APIs.