BASF plans to build an MRO station in Shanghai, China to service Deoxo aircraft ozone and ozone/VOC converters. The Shanghai MRO will complement BASF’s existing MRO in Huntsville, Alabama in the US.

Startup is planned for the fourth quarter in 2021 and will mainly support customers in the Asia Pacific region. The MRO station will ensure maintenance is performed according to the Abbreviated Component Maintenance Manuals (ACMMs) for the Deoxo ozone converters and ozone/VOC converters.

“We are excited to increase our global reach and offer faster turnaround time to customers in Asia Pacific for MRO services of Deoxo™ aircraft ozone and ozone/VOC converters,” said Ying Wu, General Manager of BASF’s Clean Air Business. “We are committed to support our customers and help ensure clean aircraft cabin air quality for everyone.”

During flight, airplanes at high altitudes are exposed to significant levels of ambient ozone. If unabated, the ambient ozone enters the aircraft cabin through the air conditioning ducts. Prolonged exposure to ozone at concentrations typical of these altitudes is known to cause adverse health effects including headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pains, coughing, and irritation of the eyes, nose or throat.

During ground and taxiing operations, odorous VOCs can enter the aircraft cabin through the bleed air system. These VOCs may include exhaust fumes from jet engines on neighboring airplanes, exhaust fumes from airplane service vehicles and de-icing fluids. Engine oil and hydraulic fluids may also leak into the bleed air system. These odorous VOCs may result in crew and passenger discomfort or even alarm, precipitating aircraft diversions and delays.

BASF’s Deoxo™ ozone/VOC dual function converters catalytically remove ozone and certain odorous VOCs to deliver better quality cabin air.

MRO service is available through BASF’s global distribution network.