LUDWIGSHAFEN, Germany – BASF announced it will expand its capacity for the production of Paliocrom^® effect pigments in Ludwigshafen, Germany, by more than 20 percent by 2017. The investment will enable the company to accommodate for the growing demand of its aluminum-based effect pigments in the automotive coatings sector. With an investment of approximately €10 million, BASF aims to strengthen its position in this fast-growing market.

“Our high-end Paliocrom effect pigments have gained much popularity in the automotive market and our orange, red and gold colors create a broad range of styling options for coatings producers,” said Alexander Haunschild, Senior Vice President, Pigments and Resins, Europe. The expansion of the Paliocrom production is being made in view of the recent color trends and the projected rising demand. BASF expects the Paliocrom product group to grow significantly above the general pigment market for automotive coatings.