BASF raising polyalcohol prices worldwide

By Patrick Raleigh UT On-line/news editorLudwigshafen, Germany-BASF AG is to increase its prices for 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, É-caprolactone, neopentyl glycol, hydroxy pivalic acid neopentyl glycol ester and trimethylolpropane. These polyalcohols are used in the production of a range of materials including polyurethanes.With effect from 17 May, prices will rise by Euro0.16/kg in Europe; $0.07/lb in North America, Asia and South America; and $0.20/kg in the Middle East and Africa. European customers will face an extra surcharge of Euro0.06kg for flake and drum material, BASF added. "These price increases are necessary as a result of further cost increases and still unsatisfactory margins," according to a 12 May company statement. "