Eastman recently started up a new dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) unit at its Nanjing site. The addition will reportedly increase the company’s DMAE capacity and support additional sales in Asia. Led by Site Manager Lisa Xiao Yan Chen, the project began several years ago and overcame several unexpected obstacles, including COVID-19.
“Even with a global pandemic, the construction had a perfect safety record,” says Sabine Ketsman, vice president and general manager of Eastman’s care chemicals and animal nutrition.
Alkyl alkanolamines like DMAE are used primarily as an intermediate in water treatment, according to the company. Ketsman stresses that water treatment is vital in addressing increased water scarcity across the world. “The need for clean water truly affects people’s daily lives and personal well-being,” she says.
Eastman has similar units in Belgium and the United States. Its Nanjing site makes methylamines and dimethylacetamide and has an existing alkanolamines unit that produces DMAE, MDEA, MMEA and MDIPA. Additional growth projects are reportedly planned.
“Asia is a very important growth region,” Ketsman says. “Nanjing will be a critical hub for us to meet the future needs of our customers in China and the entire region.”
For more information visit www.eastman.com
