OQ Chemicals has announced the declaration of force majeure for specific products manufactured at its Oberhausen, Germany facility, citing a significant disruption at a raw material supplier. On February 27, a substantial operational disturbance occurred at the synthesis gas unit of a raw material supplier situated at OQ Chemicals' Oberhausen site. This particular partner produces technical gases, including synthesis gas, which serves as crucial raw material supplied to OQ Chemicals for further processing. Consequently, the affected unit of the raw material supplier underwent automatic shutdown procedures. Following the incident, four individuals underwent precautionary medical evaluations and were subsequently discharged from the hospital on the same day.

The halt in the production of synthesis gas has led to supply limitations for various products produced by OQ Chemicals in Oberhausen, pending further updates. These products include Isobutyraldehyde, n-Butyraldehyde, n-Butanol, i-Butanol, 2-Ethylhexanol, n-Butyl acetate, n-Butylamine (all grades), TCD Alcohol DM, Neopentyl Glycol, n-Propionaldehyde, Isovaleraldehyde, 2-Methylbutyric acid, 2-Ethylhexanoic acid, n-Butyric acid, Isobutyric acid, Isononanoic acid, Isopentanoic acid, Isovaleric acid, n-Valeric acid, OXSOFT 3G8, and OXFILM 351.

At present, OQ Chemicals is unable to furnish detailed information regarding the duration of this situation. Nevertheless, the company has promptly notified its customers and is actively engaged in efforts to mitigate the impact on supply chains while striving to expedite the resumption of production at the earliest feasible juncture.

OQ Chemicals, formerly known as Oxea, stands as a prominent global producer of Oxo Intermediates and Oxo Performance Chemicals. With a diverse product portfolio essential for the production of high-quality coatings, lubricants, and plastics, the company occupies a crucial position across multiple industries. Employing over 1,400 individuals worldwide and distributing its products in more than 60 countries, OQ Chemicals operates as a subsidiary of OQ, an integrated energy firm headquartered in Oman. This force majeure event not only underscores the intricate interconnections within global supply chains but also highlights the resilience and adaptability demonstrated by companies such as OQ Chemicals in the face of operational adversities.

As the situation unfolds, stakeholders across various industries will remain vigilant, recognizing that the repercussions of this disruption could reverberate throughout global markets. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in complex supply chains and underscores the critical importance of robust contingency planning. With a steadfast focus on recovery and resilience, OQ Chemicals is navigating through these turbulent times with the aim of emerging stronger and more adaptable to the ever-evolving global landscape.