Clariant launches new phosphoric acid catalyst for fuel upgrading
MUNICH – Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, today announced the launch of PolyMax 850, a catalyst for petroleum refineries. The new phosphoric acid catalyst increases polygasoline, nonene and tetramer yields at lower operating temperatures, reducing costs and boosting productivity. Compared to previous generations of the PolyMax series, the new catalyst offers an even longer service life.
Phosphoric acid catalysts are used to convert olefins – produced during cracking processes in oil refineries – to gasoline, solvents or starting materials for plasticizers. Moreover, the catalyst allows operation at lower temperatures, saving energy. PolyMax 850 also supports sustainable fuel production. Not only does it reduce demand on raw materials, but also decreases greenhouse gas emissions. Preliminary calculations estimate an annual CO2 reduction of around 100,000 t compared to other state-of-the-art catalysts.
The catalyst is produced from diatomaceous earth and phosphoric acid in a process that does not generate wastewater. After a long service life at the refinery, PolyMax 850 can be completely recycled into fertilizers or other phosphorous compounds. Reutilization already occurs with almost 65% of all spent PolyMax catalysts, helping to reduce the consumption of phosphate rock in the production of phosphorus.
"Due to fluctuations in crude oil prices, the fuel industry is seeking more effective and efficient ways to produce high quality fuels,” said Stefan Heuser, Senior Vice President & General Manager Business Unit Catalysts at Clariant. “PolyMax 850 presents a powerful solution. It increases yields and quality, while reducing emissions and waste."
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