action loves reaction

Process Catalysts &

Technologies Product Catalog

Table of Contents
1. Introduction..................................................................... 4
2. Overview.......................................................................... 6

a. History of Catalysis..................................................... 8

b. Catalyst Attributes..................................................... 12

c. Fundamentals of Heterogeneous Catalysis.............. 14

d. Sustainability............................................................. 17

3. Biorenewables............................................................... 18
4. Environmental Catalysts................................................ 20
5. Fine Chemical Catalysts................................................ 22
6. Catalysts for Fuel Cells.................................................. 25
7. Oleochemical Catalysts................................................ 27
8. Oxidation & Dehydrogenation Catalysts....................... 31
9. Petrochemical Catalysts............................................... 35
10. Polyolefin Catalysts....................................................... 38
11. Purification Adsorbents................................................. 40
12. Refining Catalysts.......................................................... 44
13. Syngas Process Catalysts............................................ 48
14. Custom Catalysts.......................................................... 50
15. Technical Service & Support......................................... 52
16. Precious Metals Services.............................................. 55
17. Contact Us.................................................................... 57

Introduction
4

Chemical reactions require chemical catalysts. As the

global leader in chemical catalysts, BASF acts through
continuous product and process innovations in
collaborative partnerships with our customers. The
result is a broad chemical catalyst portfolio backed by
dedicated customer and technical service and enabled
through the strength of BASF - The Chemical Company.
At BASF, we create chemistry.

Award Winning Innovations

Through research and extensive experience, our portfolio
of catalysts and adsorbents was specifically engineered to
meet the requirements of a broad range of applications in a
variety of industries. Over 650 BASF catalyst specialists are
dedicated to creating innovations that raise performance
levels to exceed expectations.

Technical Service
In the selection and optimization of process catalysts
and adsorbents, companies turn to BASF. Customer
collaborations are essential in establishing and maintaining
successful relationships. Constant contact allows for
immediate responses to challenges. With onsite
customer visits, we perform thorough production
analyses, and suggest improvements for:
Increasing yield
Improving selectivity
n Enhancing throughput
n Reducing waste
n Minimizing costs
n
n

Worldwide Resources
As part of BASF The Chemical Company, the Catalysts
division offers global assets for the entire value chain. Our

ability to deploy BASFs international resources improves

response time for technical support and decreases the
lead times for product manufacturing and delivery, while
maintaining high quality and flexibility. BASF has a network
of plants, research units, and site communities in regions
where technologies can effectively and efficiently be
dispensed.

Committed to Customer Success

Assisting our customers in attaining their financial and
manufacturing goals is important to BASF. Our creative
scientists, skilled engineers, and state-of-the-art
technologies make BASF the global leader in catalysis.

Total Catalyst Solutions

The value of your catalyst solution is measured by more
than just its price tag. At BASF, we understand that it must
also include commercial and technical support, global
supply, and responsive customer service. Thats why weve
built a commercial and technical group that collectively has
more than 300 years of experience in the development and
application of catalyst technologies across the entire
range of chemical processes. This expertise is further
strengthened by a global team of customer service
providers, global centers of manufacturing excellence,
and the capability of the global BASF supply chain.

Overview of
Catalysis
6

A catalyst is a material that increases a chemical reaction

rate without sustaining any permanent change. Catalysis
provides a chemical shortcut for converting reactants into
useful products, improving reaction rates, and generating
specific results.

Today, approximately 8090% of all chemical and

pharmaceutical products are synthesized via catalytic
processes. The use of catalysts improves both the
economical and environmental conditions of numerous
chemical reactions. Catalysts have the outstanding ability to
provide higher yields while generating lower emissions and
raw materials usage.
Catalysts are useful in an extensive array of applications.
In addition to chemical production, catalysts have
widespread use in the manufacturing of polymers and
plastics. Environmental catalysts are responsible for the
removal of harmful compounds, such as carbon monoxide,
nitrous oxides, hydrocarbons, and soot from exhaust.

Catalysis is a growing science but it can typically be viewed

as three separate fields (see Figure 1):
n

Biocatalysis
Comprises the smallest portion (~2%) of todays overall
world catalyst market; uses enzymes or bio-organisms in
fermentative processes.

Homogeneous catalysis
Represents less than 10% of the catalyst market and often
faces process operation and catalyst handling issues that
limit its use; the catalyst must be dissolved in the reaction
medium.

Heterogeneous catalysis
Accounts for about 80% of all catalytic processes
and offers distinct improvements over homogeneous
catalytic processes.

Advantages include:
High stability and regenerability
Easy removal from the reaction medium

80% Heterogeneous catalysis

Biocatalysis
Homogeneous catalysis
Heterogeneous catalysis
Other

8% Other
2% Biocatalysis
10% Homogeneous catalysis

Figure 1: Overall global catalysis market

History of Catalysis
When was the concept of catalysis established? This is a
difficult question to answer quantitatively. Does it start with
the ancient belief in the ability of the philosophers stone
to convert ordinary metals into precious gold? Or, does its
origin lie in the Egyptians use of yeast to convert sugar
in fruit juice into alcohol? Regardless of its beginnings,
the science of catalysis has revolutionized chemical
applications.

Scientists Witness the Unexplained

The first eyewitnesses to catalytic reaction documented
their observations but lacked explanation for the event
they viewed. Scientists utilized early laws such as the
conservation of matter to distinguish between chemical
reactions and these strange phenomena.
During the early 1800s, Johann Wolfgang Dbereiner
suggested the terms contact phenomena and contact
processes to label these chemical events. Through his
studies, Dbereiner realized that when mixed at room
temperature over platinum, hydrogen, and oxygen would
combust. His discovery for igniting fire in daily use would
later lead to the invention of the hydrogen lamp. Dbereiner
shared his results and one of his lighters with fellow
scientist, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Goethe shared the

natural force lighter with his fellow scientists. In 1836,

one of the scientists, Jns Jakob Berzelius, would classify
this as a catalytic force:

I hence will name it the catalytic force of the

substances, and I will name decomposition by
this force catalysis. ... The catalytic force is
reflected in the capacity that some substances
have, by their mere presence and not by their
own reactivity, to awaken activities that are
slumbering in molecules at a given
temperature.

Scientists continue to refer to catalytic forces as contact

processes. In 1888, BASF developed the contact
process for producing sulphuric acid. However, in 1895,
the first scientific definition of a catalyst was given by
Wilhelm Ostwald, who claimed that a catalyst does not
initiate chemical change; instead it only can accelerate or
delay a change. His definition:

A catalyst is a substance which alters the rate

of a chemical reaction without itself appearing
in the product.
Beginning of Industrial Scale Catalysis
Different viewpoints about catalysis were discussed
amongst the global scientific community. The next
milestone was the development of industrial scale catalysis
in the early 20th century. Over the next century, catalysis
was characterized by systematic research that resulted in
the discovery of new catalytic processes. As stated in
1951 by Alwin Mittasch, who developed the first industrial
catalyst for ammonia production from hydrogen and
nitrogen, it became an unstoppable force.

Milestones in Ind

10

1835

1888

1894

1906

First definition of
catalysis by Jns
Jakob Berzelius

BASF develops the

contact process for
producing sulphuric
acid

Wilhelm Ostwald
(Nobel Prize 1909)
defines catalysis as
the acceleration of a
chemical process
proceeding slowly
through the presence
of an extraneous
substance

Oxidation of ammonia
to produce nitric acid
by Wilhelm Ostwald

1974

1972

1968

1953

 he three-way
T
catalytic converter
for removing
pollutants from
gasoline engine
exhaust is
commercialized
by BASF

Christian Anfinsen,
Stanfort Moore,
and William H.
Stein receive the
Nobel Prize for
their work on the
catalytic activity of
the enzyme
ribonuclease

Origins of
asymmetric
catalysis (synthesis
of L-dopa) in the
form of studies by
William S. Knowles

Low-pressure
polymerization of
alkenes to polymers
by Karl Ziegler and
Giulio Natta (joint
winners of Nobel
Prize 1963)

1991

1997

2001

2001

 he first commercial
T
use of metallocene
catalysts leads to
novel polymer
structures

 aul D. Boyer,
P
John E. Walker,
and J.C. Skou
receive the Nobel
Prize for studies
on enzymes in ATP
synthesis

 illiam S. Knowles,
W
R. Noyori, and K.
Barry Sharpless
receive the Nobel
Prize for catalysis
with asymmetric
molecules

Controlled
optimization of
biocatalysts by
methods of genetic
engineering

194

Vladimir Ipa
and Herma
Pines succ
catalyticall
alkylating
hydrocarbo
produce pe
with a high
number

200

Yves Chau
Robert S. G
and Richar
Schrock re
the Nobel P
studies of c
in metathes
reactions

dustrial Catalysis

1908

1910

1913

1920

Fritz Haber (Nobel

Prize 1918) discovers
the synthesis
of ammonia from
nitrogen and
hydrogen

 lwin Mittasch (BASF)

A
finds the industrial
catalyst for production
of ammonia by
systematic tests of
several thousand
catalyst formulations

 ritz Haber, Carl

F
Bosch, and Alwin
Mittasch implement
the industrial scale
ammonia process

Franz Fischer and

Hans Tropsch
develop the catalytic
hydrogenation of
carbon monoxide to
liquid hydrocarbons
(gasoline)

40

atieff
an
ceed in
ly

1936
Eugene Houdry
develops fluid
catalytic cracking
(FCC)

ons to
etroleum
h octane

05

uvin,
Grubbs,
rd R.
eceive
Prize for
catalysis
sis

1931
 arl Bosch and
C
Friedrich Bergius
receive the
Nobel Prize for
the development
of catalytic
high-pressure
reactions

1929

1922

 rthur Harden and

A
Hans von EulerChelpin receive the
Nobel Prize for their
studies of enzymes
for sugar
fermentation

Irving Langmuir
(Nobel Prize 1932)
studies the
oxidation of
carbon monoxide

2007

2007

2009

2010

 atalytic
C
denitrification of
diesel engine
exhaust gases

 erhard Ertl receives

G
the Nobel Prize for
the elucidation of
elementary steps in
catalytic reactions at
the surface of solidstate catalysts

BASF and Dow

announced the
worlds largest
commercial-scale
propylene oxide
(PO) plant and the
first based on the
innovative hydrogen
peroxide to
propylene oxide
(HPPO) technology

The Nobel Prize in

Chemistry was
awarded jointly to
Richard F. Heck,
Ei-ichi Negishi, and
Akira Suzuki for
palladiumcatalyzed cross
couplings in
organic synthesis

11

Catalyst Attributes
In addition to high activity and good selectivity, a quality
catalyst possesses long-term chemical and mechanical
stability, and suitable shape. Although selectivitys ability
for making a small change into a noteworthy gain is
considered as one of the most important attributes, all
catalytic properties supply great economic significance.
Catalysts are either:
n

Solids (frequently metals, oxides, or sulfides)

Dissolved molecular complexes or enzymes

Shape Makes a Difference

Heterogeneous catalysts are converted to the shape that
best fits the application. This is done to:
n

Improve the contact between the reaction medium and the

catalyst
Increase the active phase of the catalyst
Achieve better dispersion

To optimize processes, shaped bodies of various sizes

and geometries have been developed. Solid catalyst forms
(Figure 2) include:
n

Tablet

Ring

Grain

Extrudate

Cylinder

Sphere

Monolith

Figure 2: Various catalyst forms

Choosing the Right Support

The material to which a catalyst is attached is extremely
important. While unsupported catalysts, consisting of
only a catalytically active material are available, they do
not offer the mechanical stability of supported catalysts.
The catalyst support can be either inert or a participant
in the catalytic reaction. The support is usually chosen to
adjust the surface area. This allows for good distribution
of active sites, which increases the number of active sites
per unit volume.

12

Factors that Influence Catalytic Properties

In order to establish the desired properties in the development of a heterogeneous catalyst, it is necessary to know
exactly which factors are essential for the properties and, ultimately, for the performance of the catalyst. The most
important determining factors have been found to be (Figure 3):
n

Raw materials
Great care must be taken in the selection of the initial materials used in the catalyst production. For example,
catalyst poisons are detrimental to any improvements generated by the catalyst. Therefore, they must not be introduced
via feedstocks.
Pore structure of the catalyst
Starting materials initially pass through the pores to the active catalyst surface and end products later follow via the
same route. Lack of consistency in the pore structure can slow down the reaction and/or modify the catalytic action.
Chemical composition of the solid, comprising the catalytically active elements
Todays high-performance catalysts are typically multi-component systems composed of several active phases
which are additionally doped with numerous promoters. This introduces new factors that must be dealt with in
catalyst production.
Defined chemical composition of the active surface (both outer and inner pores)
This is very important for the functioning of the active sites, since the correct composition of the solid alone is
insufficient for high activity and selectivity.
Stability of the active phase
The morphological stability of the active catalyst phase is a prerequisite for producing a satisfactory lifetime.
Mass and heat transfer in the reactor and over the catalyst
A detailed procedure should be followed for the optimization of a catalyst system. This can be done by either creating
the most favorable operating conditions or by adapting the catalyst to perform better in the existing conditions.

Mass and
Heat
Transfer

Stability of
the Active
Phase

Pore Structure
of the Solid

Solid
Catalyst
Raw Materials
Surface
Composition

Figure 3:
Factors that influence a
catalysts performance

Chemical and
Mechanical
Stability

Chemical
Composition

13

Fundamentals of
Heterogeneous Catalysis
In simplest terms, a catalyst is a substance that, without
itself being consumed, accelerates the reaction rate
by interacting with reactants. The catalyst does this by
providing a chemical with a new path that allows the
starting materials to be more easily converted to the
end product.
In Dbereiners lighter, a route is found by the contact of
hydrogen and oxygen with the platinum catalyst. Without
catalysts, the two gases do not react (or more accurately,
react infinitely slowly) to give water.
The three main types of catalytic processes are:
n

 eterogeneous catalysis: The catalyst exists in a

H
different phase from the reactants and is characterized by
the presence of active sites on the catalyst surface.
Typically, the catalyst is a solid and reactants are fluids
(liquids or gases).
 omogeneous catalysis: The catalyst is in the same
H
phase as the reactants. Usually, the catalyst is dissolved
along with the reactant in the solvent. As is the case
for the hydrolysis of esters by acid catalysts where all
reactants and catalyst are dissolved in water.
 iocatalysis (enzymatic catalysis): An intermediate
B
character between homogeneous and heterogeneous
processes exists because although the enzymes and
reactants are in the same phase (solution), they have
active sites in their structures.

See catalysis animated at

www.catalysts.basf.com

14

Heterogeneous catalysis is a surface science. To

understand how a catalyst works, consider the conversion
of carbon monoxide (CO) in an exhaust gas stream to
carbon dioxide (CO 2 ).
1. First, the CO and O2 molecules diffuse to the surface of
the catalyzed metal or metal oxide that rests on the high
surface area carrier. The molecules diffuse through a
stagnant thin layer of gas in close contact with the
catalyzed carrier.
2. When the O2 molecule reaches the surface of the
catalyst, dissociative adsorption process begins, as
shown in Figure 4. Chemisorptions of both O2 and CO
occur on adjacent catalytic sites. During this process,
the energy level decreases as the O 2 and CO molecules
adsorb.
3. An adsorbed CO2 complex is created between the
dissociated CO and O with an energy equal to the peak
of the activation energy profile, E A, Cat (activation energy
with catalyst). This is the rate-limiting step for the
process.
4. The activated complex now has enough energy to
convert to adsorbed CO 2 . The formation of CO 2
decreases the energy level below the reactants energy
level.
5. The energy level rises slightly before stabilizing as the
molecule desorbs from the catalyst surface. The energy
released by the reaction is distributed between the
catalyst and product.

diffusion

Without a catalyst, the rate-limiting

step is the dissociation of the oxygen
molecules into oxygen atoms which
requires a higher activation energy,
EA, as shown in Figure 4.
The CO will react immediately with
the O atom to create a CO---O
complex, which in turn will convert to
CO2. A catalyst lowers the activation
energy of the rate-limiting step, which
accelerates the reaction.

diffusion

reaction
2 CO2

2 CO + O2

adsorption

desorption
catalyst surface

Figure 4: Decomposition of carbon monoxide on a catalyst surface

energy
without catalyst
with catalyst
EA
energy
barrier
EA, Cat

heat of
reaction

X
Y
A: Starting material
B: Product
X: Chemical interaction between A and catalyst
Y: Chemical interaction between B and catalyst

A catalysts activity is its ability to

accelerate the rate of a chemical
reaction, as shown in Figure 5. It is
measured in the number of converted
molecules per unit of time. In solid
catalysts, the rate of reaction depends
on the mass of the catalysts and the
number of active sites. The activity is
then related to the number of product
molecules formed at a site within
one second. The turnover frequency,
or rate of turnover, is defined as the
number of times the catalytic cycle
is completed per active site per time
for a reaction at a given temperature,
pressure, reactant rate, and extent
of reaction. An active catalyst will
have high turnover frequencies. For
example, in an ammonia catalyst, an
active site will form approximately 100
to 200 million ammonia molecules
during the lifetime of the catalyst.

reaction path

Figure 5: Energy profile of a reaction with and without a catalyst

15

Starting
Materials:
CO+H2

Catalysts

End Products

Nickel

CH4 (Methane)

Cu/ZnO/Al2O3

CH3OH (Methanol)

Iron or Cobalt

CnH2n+2 (Fuel)

Figure 6: Selectivity of catalysts for a mixure of carbon monoxide and hydrogen

In addition to lowering the activation energy, a catalyst can

also change the selectivity. For example, when nitric oxide
and hydrogen are diffused onto a rhodium (Rh) catalyst,
nitrogen and water are the end products. However, if a
platinum (Pt) catalyst is used, ammonia and water are
the results of the catalytic reaction. An example of the
selectivity process for CO and hydrogen is shown in
Figure 6.

16

The selectivity or reaction-steering action of a catalyst is

determined by the selective acceleration of a particular
reaction route. Or in other words, the lowering of a specific
energy barrier selects the route.

Sustainability
At BASF, sustainability is an interweaving of strategic goals for economic success, environmental protection, and social
responsibility. For a process to be sustainable, it must efficiently use resources, while leaving sufficient materials for
future generations. Catalysis is the key element to make this happen. BASFs Catalysts division meets the challenge
by offering technologies that protect the air we breathe, and ensure efficient production of a wide variety of chemicals,
plastics, and other products.
In the industrial chemical market, catalysts are leading the way to sustainability by:
n

 aving energy with lower temperature

S
requirements for reactions

Producing desirable products

Increasing the overall process throughput

 ecreasing the need for expensive reactor

D
materials and reactor size

Success Added Value through Sustainability

Dedicated companies are today faced with multifaceted challenges that hinder
their sustainability. As the leading chemical company in the world, BASF is
sharing its outstanding proficiency to help our customers and suppliers become
more successful. Our Success Added Value through Sustainability packages
are tailor-made to meet the needs of our customers and suppliers. Each package
is designed to:
n

Optimize your PROCESS

Analyze your PRODUCT potential

Support your STRATEGIES

Creating a Sustainable Society with BASF

Unsustainable Situation:

Unsustainable Situation:

 dipic acid and nitric acid

A
production generate toxic
emissions of nitric oxide.

 armful exhaust emissions from

H
buses, trucks, and other heavy duty
diesel vehicles.

Sustainable Result:

Sustainable Result:

BASF catalysts reduce annual

emissions by 40 million tons of
CO2 equivalents.

 ASFs selective catalytic reduction

B
(SCR) technology decreases nitrogen
oxides (NOx) by more than 60%.
Unsustainable Situation:
Poisonous exhaust fumes from
automobiles released into the
atmosphere.
Sustainable Result:
Since its inception, BASFs
three-way catalyst technology
has destroyed over 1 billion tons
of pollutants before they ever
reached the atmosphere.

17

Biorenewables

Reductions in carbon dioxide emissions and dwindling

resources are driving the need for the biorenewable market.
BASF provides superior catalysts for chemical processes
involving biorenewable raw materials. Some examples of
use of our catalysts include the production of:
n
n
n
n

18

Propylene glycol from glycerin

Hydrocarbons from vegetable oils
Diols from sorbitol
Biofuels (bioethanol & biodiesel)

Biofeedstocks
Biofeedstocks include triglycerides (oils and fats), sugar,
and cellulosic materials. In addition to our hydrogenation
catalysts (Figure 7) and purification adsorbents, BASF
offers a comprehensive line of catalysts for sugarbased
chemical value chains, including the conversion of sugars
to sorbitol.

Biofuels
BASF offers catalytic solutions for the processing of
different types of biofuels. One such example is the
heterogeneous catalyst that catalytically transesterifies
triglycerides with methanol for Fatty Acid Methyl Ester
(FAME) production (Figure 8).

Catalytic
Transesterification Process
H2C

OOCR

HC

OOCR

H2C

OOCR

Triglyceride

BASF
Heterogenous
Catalyst

Methanol

Glycerol

3 H3C

OOCR

FAME
Biodiesel
Figure 7: Example of a hydrogenation
catalyst for biofeedstock conversions

Figure 8: Catalytic transesterification

process for FAME production

19

Environmental
Catalysts
20

BASF offers an extensive portfolio of environmental

catalysts and technologies that reduce emissions from
stationary sources and industrial processes. Emission
reduction projects, such as the one defined by the United
Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, are
easily managed with our unique solutions that come from
the right combination of catalytic technology and project
management services.

N2O Decomposition &

Climate Gas Reduction Technologies
In addition to addressing the reduction of climate gas,
BASF N2O decomposition technology supports the Kyoto
Protocol goals, including emission trading certificates.
Since 1997, our decomposition technology has been
implemented in BASF plants. By utilizing it in our
plants, we can optimize the technology with a handson
approach to development. The catalysts, as shown in
Figure 9, are used for, but not limited, to the following
worldwide industrial N2O emission sources:
n

Nitric acid plants

Adipic acid plants with referring license and design

BASF now offers a full line of catalysts for the selective

catalytic reduction of NOx from stationary sources. The
catalysts are used in, but not limited to, the following
applications:
n

Calcination plants

Caprolactam plants

Cement plants

Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) refinery units

Gas and diesel engines

Gas turbines

Glass trough

Nitric acid plants

Power plants (coal, oil, gas, biomass)

Railroad engines

Ship diesel

Steam crackers

Steel mills

 aste incineration plants (municipal waste,

W
hazardous waste, clinical waste)

CO, VOC & Ammonia Destruction Catalysts

Figure 9: N2O decomposition
catalyst, operated at 900C
directly downstream of
hot platinum gauze in nitric
acid plants

Selective Catalytic NOx Reduction (DeNOx) &

Dioxin Abatement Technologies
Since its development by BASF in the late 60s, DeNOx
process has been successfully used worldwide for the
denitrification of offgas from nitric acid plants. With the
introduction of the dioxin catalyst in the 70s, the application
of the technology was extended to the emissions from
waste incineration plants. This process allows for the
complete destruction of pollutants without the creation
of residues.

BASF offers oxidation catalysts to destroy carbon

monoxide (CO) and volatile organic compounds (VOC)
from natural gas and oil fired turbines and boilers. In
addition, we are a leader in the development of highly
active, robust and selective catalysts for VOC destruction
in process industries and other applications. Finally,
BASFs innovative family of ammonia destruction catalysts
includes patented catalysts for controlling ammonia
emissions from natural gas fired turbines and stationary
engines, as well as coal fired power plants.
n

Gas turbines

Power plants

Process industries

21

Fine Chemical
Catalysts
22

BASF, an industry leader in cuttingedge catalysts and

technologies for pharmaceutical and fine chemical markets,
understands that speedtomarket, costeffectiveness, and
product uniqueness are imperative for its customers. In
order to assist in your selection of the right catalyst for your
specific process, sample kits are available.

Heterogeneous Precious and

BaseMetals Catalysts

Research Quantities:

BASF has an extensive portfolio of heterogeneous

precious and basemetal catalysts. The precious metals
(Pd, Pt, Rh, Ru, Ir, Au, and Ag) which are dispersed on
a wide range of supports (carbon, alumina, silica or
titania) are available as powders, extrudates, tablets or
spheres. Base metals (mainly Ni and Cu), supported and
passivated, as easytohandle powder catalysts, and
skeletal metal materials complete the group. With our
stateofthe art metal deposition technology, BASF is able
to exceed the specific needs and requirements of our
customers chemistry and equipment.

Order through Strem Chemicals, Inc.

(www.strem.com)

Commercial Quantities:
 ontact one of the
C
following regional offices
n

Asia: +912226164159

EMEA: +390641992605

USA: +18003368559

High Purity Homogeneous Catalysts

BASF offers a full line of standard and highpurity metal
salt precursors which are used to produce homogeneous
catalysts. This technology was specifically designed for
use in fine chemical applications that require consistent
batchtobatch reproducibility. Benefits include:
n

 igher process selectivity due to less

H
byproduct formation

Increased process throughput

Increased primary product yield (in some cases)

Blocking Group Removal (BGR) Catalysts

For hydrogenation reactions in the pharmaceutical and fine chemical industry, BASF offers a line of precious metal
based BGR catalysts for the removal of protecting groups. BGR catalysts perform better than classical catalysts in
the selective removal of common organic synthesis and peptides synthesis (FMOC, tBOC) blocking groups. When
compared to traditional catalysts, BGR displayed:
n

Intrinsically higher activity (good selectivity preserved) Figure 10

Proven effectiveness in a broader range of solvents (high activity and process productivity preserved) Figure 11

100

BGR
catalyst

80

Classical
catalyst

60
40

160

Methanol
MeOH

140
120

Ethyl acetate

100

N-Methyl-2Pyrrolidone
(NMP)

80
60
40

20

20

3%Pd/CP 5%Pd/CP 10%Pd/CP

50C, 10% benzyloxyphenol in MeOH, 1.1 bar H 2

Figure 10: Comparison of the activity of different

concentrations of palladium (Pd) on carbon powder (CP)

5%Pd/CP BGR

5%Pd/CP classical catalyst

50C, 10% benzyloxyphenol in MeOH, 1.1 bar H 2

Figure 11: Comparison of the solvent compatibility for

palladium (Pd) on carbon powder (CP)

23

Metal Removal Technology

BASF offers an innovative and uniquely effective range of Metal Scavenging Agents (MSA). The inorganic supports (carbon,
silica or alumina) are carefully selected to meet pharmaceutical quality standards. MSAs remove metal complexes (all of
the platinum group metals) as well as the attached ligands. In addition to being extremely effective for not welldefined
metal species (ionic, nonionic, or a mixture of both), the benefits of our robust MSAs include:
n

Effective use up to 170C

Maintenance of high uptake capacity in either aqueous (Figure 12) or organic (Figure 13) solution

No evidence of swelling in solution

300

300
Resin
MSA FC Si-1

200
150

150
100

500

500

10

15

20

Time (min)

Figure 12: Effectiveness of MSA ethylenediamine modified

silica (MSAFC Si-1) in an aqueous solution

MSA FC Si-1

200

100

Resin

250
Pd (ppm)

Pd (ppm)

250

10

15

20

Time (min)

Figure 13: Effectiveness of MSA ethylenediamine

modified silica (MSAFC Si-1) in an organic solution

Refining and Full Loop Service

BASF provides outstanding facilities for the recovery and refinement of removed precious metals. More details about
Refining and Full Loop Services can be found in the Precious Metal Services section (Section 16)

24

Catalysts for
Fuel Cells

BASF is meeting the challenge of generating hydrogen for

fuel cell applications with high efficiency. Our broad variety
of technologies and products, including custom solutions,
ranges from base metal to precious metal catalysts applied
in pelletized or in form. These catalysts can be applied in
almost all types of fuel cell systems, e. g. Proton Exchange
Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC), Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell
(PAFC), Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC), or Solid Oxide
Fuel Cell (SOFC).

25

Catalysts are Available for the Following

Hydrogen Generating Steps:
Desulfurization

CO Removal

BASF D Series adsorbents and catalysts are used to

remove sulfur before the fuel is fed into the reformer. The
benefits of D Series products:

BASF CO Series catalysts use the following three

approaches for the conversion of CO to carbon dioxide
(CO2):

No addition of hydrogen necessary

CO-selective methanation

Ambient pressure and temperature operations

CO-selective oxidation

Tail gas oxidation

Reforming
BASF R Series catalysts, both base and precious metal
materials, offer outstanding results in the production of
hydrogen from hydrocarbon feedstocks, such as natural
gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), gasoline, diesel and
alcohols. The benefits of R Series products:
n

Resistant to frequent load changes and start/stop cycles

High space velocity operations

Enabling of compact reformer design

Liquid water and air tolerance

CO-Shift Reactions
BASF S Series catalysts, both base and precious metal
materials, provide improved solutions for both low and high
temperature CO-shift reactions. The benefits of S Series
products:
n

Resistant to frequent load changes and start/stop cycles

Outstanding performance and stability

Tolerance of atmosphere changes without activity loss

High specific activity

26

The benefits of CO Series products:

n

Robust material

Long lifetime

Outstanding performance

Tailored solutions

Electrocatalysts
BASF also offers a wide range of highly active cathode
and anode electrocatalysts on corrosion resistant support
materials.

Oleochemical
Catalysts

BASF has an extensive portfolio of catalysts and

adsorbents to cover the complete scope of oleochemical
processing needs. With applications from hydrogenation of
oils, fats, and fatty acids to the production of fatty alcohols,
our technologies offer high activity and excellent filterability.

27

Base Metal Catalysts for

Oleochemical Processing
Copper Catalysts
BASFs copper-based catalysts are typically used for hydrogenolysis of fatty
esters to fatty alcohols including both methyl ester and wax ester processes,
alkylation of alcohols with amines and amination of fatty alcohols. Copper-based
catalysts also have unique performance for selective hydrogenation of edible oils
and can be used in the conversion of biorenewable feedstocks into industrial
chemicals. The BASF copper catalyst portfolio includes copper supported on
silica and alumina as well as copper chromite types. Our powders (copper
chromite and promoted copper chromite) for slurry processes offer:
n

High activity

Optimized particle size (for easy removal using standard equipment)

Our formed catalysts (copper chromite and copper on silica and alumina
supports) for fixed beds offer:
n

High conversion rates

Long reactor bed life

Resistance to feedstock impurities, such as acidity and sulfur compounds

Excellent reaction selectivity to minimize hydrocarbon formation

Nickel Catalysts
Our nickel-based catalysts are characteristically used as a final purification step
in fixed bed hydrogenation of low levels of carbonyl compounds in fatty alcohols.
They are typically pre-activated to increase activity levels.

Zinc Catalysts
Our zinc-based catalysts are essential to ester hydrogenation that requires
carbon-carbon unsaturation retention.

28

Adsorbents for Fats and Oils Purification

BASF purification portfolio includes bleaching clay adsorbents made from
bentonite ore containing montmorillonite, and non-activated, surface neutral
adsorbents. BASFs bleaching clays are kosher-certified and FEDIOL compliant.
In addition to trace metal adsorption from triglyceride oils, our adsorbents offer:
n

Wide-range of particle sizes to fit all customer filtration requirements

Different surface acidity levels

High activity with the lowest clay dosages

Optimized particle size for ease in conventional filtration equipment

Superior product bulk density and porosity

Precious Metal Catalysts for

Miscellaneous Applications
BASF offers a comprehensive line of precious metal catalysts as powders for
slurry process applications and formed shapes (extrudate or granular) for fixed
bed processes. Applications include:
n

Fatty acid hydrogenation

Methylation to produce natural source vitamins from tocopherol raw materials

Carbohydrate hydrogenation

See section 16 for additional precious metal services offered by BASF.

29

Nickel Catalysts for Oil, Fat,

and Fatty Acid Hydrogenation
For catalytic hydrogenation, BASF offers the Nysosel
catalysts (Table 1) for edible oil hydrogenation and Nysofact
catalysts (Table 2) for fatty acid hydrogenation. These nickelbased, precipitated catalyst powders allow users to achieve
desired oil properties. They provide:
n

Maximum reaction activity

Easy filtration using conventional equipment

 ase of handling due to full-hardened vegetable

E
oil coating

Resistant to common feedstock contaminants

Use in wide range of feedstock choices

Kosher, Non-Animal Protein and IFS certification

Catalysts for fatty nitrile hydrogenation are also available

Table 1: Nysosel catalysts Edible oil hydrogenation

Type

Application

Activity

Selectivity

Standard

Full hydrogenation of a wide variety of

oils and fats

High

High

Selective

Partial hydrogenation, e. g. to
minimize saturates

Good

Very high

High-Durability

Partial or full hydrogenation of feedstocks containing trace impurities like

sulfur

Good

High

Low Nickel

Full hydrogenation of a wide variety of

oils and fats

Very high
High
(based on
Ni content)

Sulfur-Promoted Hydrogenation with maximum

isomerization of double bonds

Good

High

Table 2: Nysofact catalysts Fatty acid hydrogenation

Type

Application

Activity

Standard

Hydrogenation of a wide variety of fatty

acid feedstocks

High

Impurity Resistance

Partial or full hydrogenation of feedstocks

containing high levels of impurities

Good

Low Nickel

Full hydrogenation of a wide variety of oils

and fats

Very high (based

on Ni content)

30

Oxidation &
Dehydrogenation
Catalysts

With more than 125 years of experience, BASF creates

oxidation and dehydrogenation catalysts with advanced
selectivity and unrivaled technical service. BASF offers
innovative technologies that include:
n
n
n
n
n

Sulphuric acid catalysts

Phthalic anhydride (PA) catalysts
Maleic anhydride (MAN) catalysts
OxiStar oxychlorination catalysts and diluents
StyroStar styrene catalysts

31

Sulphuric Acid Oxidation Catalysts

Phthalic Anhydride (PA) Oxidation Catalysts

BASF has created stateoftheart catalysts for high

yield sulphuric acid production, as shown in Figure 14. In
addition to research, design, and processing of specialty
oxidation catalysts, we work directly with our customers for
full system designs that have:

With over 130 years of production and 110 years of

research experience, BASF has an extensive background in
PA catalysts. Since 1873, BASFs Ludwigshafen (Germany)
site has produced more than 3 million tons of PA.

Reductions of SO2 emission

Optimization of capital investment

Maximization of environmental protection

Performance reliability throughout all plant operations

Practical simulations of plant operations

heat exchanger 1

heat exchanger 4

heat exchanger 2

blower
SO2

converter

heat exchanger 3

final
absorption
tower

Figure 14: Sulphuric acid production reaction

32

Our PA catalysts produce PA through oxidation from an o

xylene and naphthalene/mixed feed. BASFs advantages in
supplying PA catalysts include:

intermediate
absorption
tower

 xperience with operations of oxylene loadings

E
up to 100 g/Nm3
Innovative steps for improving development of
PA catalysts

Optimization of current catalyst performance

Supervision of catalyst filling

Startup assistance

Technical support

Optimization of current catalyst performance

Information exchange through regular PA forums

Maleic Anhydride (MAN) Oxidation Catalysts

BASF, the worlds only producer of MAN catalysts to have
R&D, inhouse catalyst, and MAN production facilities,
precisely supplies the catalysts you need for your specified
application. BASF offers MAN catalysts for a full range of
processes and applications, including, but not limited to:
n

 aleic Anhydride
M
Uses: Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPR) for the
electronics and construction industries
 utanediole (BDO)
B
Uses: Polyurethanes production
 etrahydrofuran (THF)
T
Uses: Spandex fibers to produce products, such as elastic
sportswear
 umaric Acid
F
Uses: Paper resins and food acid
 thers: MANbased copolymers, succinic anhydride,
O
and other chemical intermediates

With our extensive facilities, we are able to offer test

measurement of MAN catalyst performance under
replicated conditions, customer operation training, catalyst
startup and filling services, and continuous optimization of
your BASF catalyst operations.

Oxychlorination Catalysts
BASF offers a full range of OxiStar oxychlorination
catalysts and diluents for the production of ethylene
dichloride (EDC) using fixed bed technology. As the
leading performer in fixed bed processes, we provide:
n

Lower pressure drop (-20%) for higher throughput

Higher HCl conversion (+2%) for increased productivity

Reduced total oxidation (-15%) for higher selectivity

Lower particle temperature that yields lower hot spot

 maller amount of dilution material for equalization of

S
temperature profile

33

Styrene Catalysts for Dehydrogenation

BASF provides StyroStar catalysts, high performance styrene catalysts for the dehydrogenation process, which are
utilized in a 2reactor adiabatic design to produce styrene with minimum byproducts. With the introduction of the
UOP/Lummus SMART SM technology, BASF has created costeffective methods for styrene production. Milestones
in styrene catalyst history are given in Figure 15.
Our styrene catalysts provide:
n

Outstanding activity and selectivity

Exceptionally low monthly decline rate

Excellent stability at low steam to oil (S/O) ratios

Low byproducts formation

Robust and durable mechanical strength

Figure 15: Milestones in styrene catalyst history

34

Petrochemical
Catalysts

For enhanced catalyst activity, selectivity, and longevity,

more chemical and petrochemical companies trust BASF.
Our broad range of proprietary base metal and precious
metal catalysts, as well as base metal oxides, is employed in
an array of fixed bed and slurry applications. Almost 200 end
products are manufactured with the use of BASF catalysts,
which aid in several reactions, including:
n
n
n
n

Hydrogenation
Dehydrogenation
Amination
Oxidation

n
n
n

Halogenation
Dehydration
Hydration

35

BASF has developed selectivity

optimized hydrocarbon hydrogenation
processes (SELOP) for C3, C4,
and Pygas. Operation of our own
plants results in BASF being the
preferred licensor for these selective
hydrocarbon hydrogenations. (see
Figure 17)

Hydrocarbon
Hydrogenation
n

 elective hydrogenation (C2,

S
C3, C4, C5 Pygas)
Dearomatization

Resin hydrogenation

Dehydrogenation,
Dehydration, Oxidation
n

Alcohols

 ASF-Linde Propane
B
Dehydrogenation Process
 NAP catalyst for butane and
S
propane dehydrogenation
Ethanol-to-ethylene

Inorganics

Oxo alcohols

 utanediol and equivalents

B
(THF and GBL)

 MPO (Acetophenone to
S
phenylethanol to styrene)

Silicones

Brine polishing

Amines

Aliphatic amines
 romatic amines (e.g. Aniline,
A
TDA)

 lternate chlorofluorocarbons
A
(CFCs)

H2O2

 hlorinated organics
C
(e.g. chloroacetic acid)
Others

Polishing

Acrylamide

Purified terephthalic acid

Others

Others

Vinyl acetate monomer

Crudes

Primary BB

Gas

Syngas

Secondary BB

Products

Acetylene

Butanediol

Hydrogen

H2O2

Ammonia
Methanol

Oxo alcohols

Oil

Naphtha

Coal

Alternate CFCs
Cyclohexane

Fuels

Benzene
Aromatics

Coal tar

Figure 16: Petrochemical value chains

36

Vinyl acetate
Alkyl amines

Olefins

Lubricants

Methyl amines

Cumene, Styrene
Aniline

Toluene

TDI

Xylene

PTA, PA

Figure 17: Catalytic hydrogenations in steam cracker or refinery work-up section

Catalyst Family Examples

Application

Ni 32XX/Ni 52XX

Dearomatization

H0-XX/E Series

Selective Hydrocarbon Hydrogenation

Al 39XX

Alcohol Dehydration

Pd 09XX

Vinyl Acetate Monomer Production

Cu/CuCr Series

Oxo Alcohols

Cu 08XX

Aromatic Amines

Pd/Zeolite

H 2O 2

CBA 300/400

Purified Terephthalic Acid

Table 3: Typical applications associated with petrochemical catalyst families

37

Polyolefin
Catalysts
38

At BASF, we provide our customers with the catalyst

technology needed to optimize their polyolefin
manufacturing process. With our more than 200 years
of experience in the development and application of
catalyst technologies applicable across the entire range
of polyolefin processes, we can also supply the product
differentiation needed for a competitive marketplace.

Polypropylene (PP) Catalysts

 mooth plant operation and the capability to increase

S
plant throughput

Narrow Particle Size Distribution (PSD)

Low or no fines

High bulk density

High internal surface area

Lynx 1030

4
Xylene Soluble

BASFs comprehensive portfolio of Lynx PP catalysts are

utilized commercially in major PP process technologies
including slurry, bulk loop, stirred gas phase, fluid gas
phase, and stirred bulk. PP catalysts are ideal for efficient
comonomer incorporation and distribution for minirandom,
random copolymer (RACO or RCP), and heterophasic
impact copolymers (HECO or ICP). Along with superior
polymer structure and properties, other outstanding
characteristics (Figure 18) include:

Lynx 1020

Film

BOPP

Lynx 1010
IM

Fiber

Lynx 1000

Impact Copolymer*
HC

10

* Homopolymer MF

20

30
Melt Flow

40

50

Figure 18: Outstanding properties of the Lynx 1000 family

Characteristics and Benefits of the

Lynx Series
n

 ctivity and versatile isotacticity control with

A
excellent operability
 ize distribution optimized for maximum throughput
S
and processability

Structures
and properties specifically optimized for
desired end use applications
 onsistent and reliable catalyst quality, batch to batch,
C
year after year

39

Purification
Adsorbents
40

From the purification of hydrocarbon streams to industrial

gases, BASF has the purification adsorbent that meets your
needs. Our comprehensive portfolio includes adsorbent
technologies for applications in industries such as:
chemical, gas processing, petrochemical, and refining (see
Figure 19). Our product line (see Table 4) consists of:
Activated Alumina Adsorbents
Activated Bentonite Adsorbents
n Alumino-Silica Gel Sorbead Adsorbents
n Catalyst Substrates & Intermediates
n Metal Oxide Adsorbents
n Molecular Sieve Adsorbents
n
n

Activated Alumina Adsorbents

An extensive selection of activated alumina adsorbents, including boehmite and
boehmite-based gamma alumina that offer:
n

Tailored pore distribution

 hysical durability with uniform ball size, high crush strength, low abrasion, and
P
high adsorptive capacity
 vailability in powder, granular, and spherical forms in standard and
A
custom sizes

Activated Bentonite Adsorbents

A broad portfolio of products, including the industry-standard, F-Series of
activated clays, which utilize trusted and proven activation technology (H2SO4 )
in order to provide:
n

Highly-effective purification of benzene, toluene and xylene

Superior water stability for withstanding process disturbances

A wide-range of operational requirements

Alumino-Silica Gel Sorbead Adsorbents*

The Sorbead product line, with its wide-range of sizes and physical
characteristics, works in a large scope of manufacturing environments
to supply:
n

Low regeneration temperatures

Durable bead shape with very high abrasion resistance

Long-life

Large specific surface area

High bulk density/high loading capacity

Catalyst Substrates and Intermediates

Our catalytic grades of alumina provide an excellent combination of purity and
porosity that yield:
n

Aluminas of extraordinary purity (less than 0.01 wt% by weight)

 ailored chemical and physical properties from our controlled
T
production processes
 ange of crystallinities that create suitable products for extensive
R
variety of applications

Use the Adsorbent Selector to find the

adsorbent thats right for your application.

* Sorbead adsorbents are also known as KC-Trockenperlen in Europe.

41

Metal Oxide Adsorbents

Molecular Sieve Adsorbents

Combinations of Selexsorb, PuriStar, Prosorb and other

BASF adsorbents provide comprehensive purification and
contamination solutions. Removal of contaminants including:

Our superior zeolite-based molecular sieve adsorbents

with nominal pore openings that range from 3 (0.3 nm)
to 10 (1.0 nm) offer:

COS, H2S, CS2

CO, CO2, H2O, NH3

Mercaptans

Sulfides, Disulfides

Amines, Amides, Nitriles

 Thiophenes

Oxygenates (Alcohols,
Aldehydes, Ketones, etc.)

High adsorption of water at low partial pressures

 Organosilicates

Separation of compounds with similar polarity

 Arsine

 Oxygen
 Hydrogen

 elective adsorption or separation based on

S
molecular size

Polar compound drying

Uniform ball size for consistent pressure drop

 Phosphine

Acetylenes and Dienes (Trace)

Amines available from BASF

Intermediates Division;
www.intermediates.basf.com

42

Figure 19: BASF adsorbents at work

Application

Products

Dehydration

F-200, F-220, H-156, Sorbead R,

Sorbead WS, Selexsorb CD,
Selexsorb CDX, 3A, 4A, 5A, 13X

Hydrocarbon Recovery

Sorbead R, Sorbead H, Sorbead WS

H 2O 2

CPN, DD-6, DD-PG

COS, H2S, CS2


Selexsorb
COS, D-1275/D-1280, Prosorb, R3-12, R3-16,
Selexsorb AS, Selexcat, E-315/R9-12

CO, CO2

Selexsorb COS, Prosorb, R3-16, R3-17, 4A, 5A, 13X

Chloride

CL-750, CL-760, CL-850

HF

HF-200, HF-200XP

Fluoride

CPN, DD-6

Arsine, Phosphine

Selexsorb AS, Prosorb, R3-12, R3-16, E-315/R9-12

O 2, H 2

R3-16, DeOxo, R3-11G

Oxygenates

Selexsorb CD, CDX, 13X

Nitriles, Ammonia

Selexsorb CD, CDX

Mercaptans, Thiophenes, Sulfides

Selexsorb CD, CDX, 5A, 13X,

D-1275/D-1280, Prosorb, Selexsorb SG

Organosilicates

Selexsorb Si

TBC (Styrene)

Selexsorb ST

Oleflex

DD-710

Aromatics Purification,
BTX, Xylenes, Cumene

F-24, F-25, F-54, F-154

Claus Catalysts


S-100,
S-100SR, S-400, DD-431,
DD-831, DD-931, SRC-99ti, Ti-1100e

Catalyst Substrates

DD-443, DD-447, DD-440, CSS-350, SAS-series, LD-5

Catalyst Precursors

CP-Powder, G-250, Ga-200, Ga-200L, C-167

Bed Supports

T-162, ABS

Chromatographic

CG-20

Refinery Off-Gas

R3-81, R8-21

Acetylene Off-Gas

R0-20, R3-15

Air Separation

13X

Table 4: BASFs purification product line

43

Refining
Catalysts

The petroleum refining landscape is constantly evolving

through changing crude slates, shifts in refined product
demands, and the necessity to produce more from
existing assets. In the face of these challenges, BASF
offers innovative solutions. If you are looking for a catalyst
supplier whose technologies and services will enable you
to make more of the products you want with enhanced
operating flexibility, look no further than BASF. Trust BASF
FCC Catalyst Technologies and Services (see Table 5) to
deliver innovation, value, and performance to your refinery.
n

44

FCC Catalysts
Additives

n
n

 o-Catalysts & FCC Solutions

C
Technical Services

FCC Catalysts

Co-Catalysts and FCC Solutions

BASF is a global industry leader in Fluid Catalytic Cracking

(FCC) catalysts. Through cutting-edge technology and
manufacturing platforms, BASF delivers value to the refiner
with a robust portfolio of tailored products that offer:

When refiners are challenged with dynamic market

fluctuations in refined product prices, BASFs Co-Catalysts
allow the refiner to respond to these fluctuations quickly by
eliminating the need for a catalyst reformulation. BASFs
Co-Catalysts offer:

 ighest degree of surface area,

H
zeolite/matrix ratio flexibility

Superior selectivities for greater yields

Advanced hydrothermal stability

Enriched metal passivation abilities

BASFs Technology & Manufacturing Platforms include:

n

 he award winning Distributed Matrix Structures (DMS)

T
technology platform offers a wide range of feedstock
applications, from vacuum gas oil to moderate and heavy
resid feeds delivering increased gasoline yields with a
high degree of coke selectivity.

Efficient utilization of the FCC unit for improved profitability

Propylene maximization
 aximum gasoline production with maximum
M
sulfur reduction
 ow microfines generation for improved high
L
stack opacity

 he Proximal Stable Matrix and Zeolite (Prox-SMZ)

T
technology platform combines attributes from both high
zeolite and high matrix activity for maximum distillate
yields from the FCC unit.

Technical Services

 he Multi-Stage Reaction Catalysts (MSRC) manufacturing

T
platform enables BASF to engineer a catalyst composition
of heterogeneously distributed reaction stages for
enhanced performance.

Through close partnerships with each refiner, BASF

technical professionals optimize catalyst formulations
and provide on-going technical and troubleshooting
support including:

Additives
BASF offers a complete range of FCC additives to meet
refiners environmental and performance requirements
addressing:
n

NOx and SOx emissions reduction

Improved fluidization

Sulfur reduction

Outstanding CO promoters

 ield maximization of either Light Cycle Oil (LCO) or

Y
gasoline as required

BASF also offers specialized FCC Solutions that address

specific refinery objectives including:

n
n

Rapid deployment in the FCC unit

Technical Service Support (TSS) Reports

Fresh and equilibrium catalyst analysis

Slurry and fines analysis

FCC statistical modeling

 atalyst change risk minimization/trial

C
procedure protocols

Technical training and seminar services

Other troubleshooting and ad-hoc lab services

 aximum Liquefied Petroleum Gasoline (LPG) olefins &

M
gasoline octane enhancement

45

Gas Oil

DMS
FCC CATALYSTS
BASF is a global industry
leader in FCC catalysts
with unparalleled
commitment to delivery of
cutting edge technology
and service to the refining
industry

Resid

PROXSMZ

NaphthaMax
NaphthaMax III
HDXtra
PetroMax
Flex-Tec
Defender
Endurance
Stamina
Aegis
Fortress
BituPro

FCC CO-CATALYSTS
Co-Catalysts have
similarities with both
Additives & Catalysts but
stand alone as a category
of products

Converter
HDUltra
HDUltra-R

FCC SOLUTIONS
FCC Solutions are
customized solutions
built on unique synergies
of BASF Technology
platforms offering optimal
performance
ADDITIVES
Complete range of FCC
additives to meet refiners
environmental and
performance requirements

LMF
NaphthaClean

MPS

EZ Flow
LSA
USP
MOA
CLEANOx
LNP
SOXCATExtra

46

Table 5: BASF FCC catalyst technologies

OTHER

DMS

PROXSMZ

DMS +
PROX-SMZ

Canadian
Oil Sands
MSRC

DMS +
PROX-SMZ

Gasoline

DMS

Distillate

PROXSMZ

Low
Micro
Fines
OTHER

Gasoline
Sulfur
Reduction
DMS

Propylene
Maximization

Performance
Enhancing

Environmental
Compliance

DMS

47

Syngas
Process
Catalysts
48

BASFs syngas process catalysts offer substantial

improvements in thermal efficiency, throughput, and
operating costs. Our understanding of catalyst technology
and our relationships with key engineering partners result in
products and services on which customers can build.

Natural Gas
BASF provides catalytic advancements for syngas, a key
intermediate in emerging natural gas technologies, such as:
n

GasToLiquids (GTL)

Methanoltoolefins

Coaltoliquids

Fuel cells

Pre-Reforming
Syngas plants utilize BASFs prereforming catalysts in the
production of:
n

Methanol

Ammonia

Hydrogen

Other chemicals

Substitute Natural Gas (SNG)

BASFs catalysts are used in SNG generation by syngas
methanation for many applications, including:
n

Biomass gasification

Coal gasification

49

Custom
Catalysts
50

BASF offers a broad portfolio of process catalyst

technologies combined with expertise critical to
the success of custom catalyst development and
commercialization (see Figure 20).

What is a BASF Custom Catalyst?

Surface and Material Science Competencies

A BASF custom catalyst is a catalyst developed or

co-developed by a BASF customer with full confidentiality
and Intellectual Property (IP) protection. Varying business
models are provided to give the customer added flexibility.

BASFs surface and material science experts utilize

engineered materials and specialized chemical
formulations to:

Confidentiality and IP Protection

Our customers IP is of vital importance. Therefore, BASF
has established a successful protocol that includes:
n

Establishment of legal agreements for IP protection

Internal firewall protection

 imitation of information dissemination on a

L
Need-To-Know basis
Project teams chosen to avoid conflicts of interest

Create customized functionalities

Enhance yield, selectivity, and lifetime

Enable environmental compliance

Outsourcing Your Custom Catalyst

Manufacturing to BASF
Catalyst manufacturing is what we do. With our global
network of production plants, research units, and site
communities around the world, BASF provides extensive
production capabilities to create your custom catalysts.

Figure 20: BASFs roles in custom catalyst development and commercialization

51

Technical Service
& Support
52

In addition to our name being synonymous with superior

quality products, BASF delivers technical support and
service that is unparalleled in the catalyst industry. We
successfully combine expert commercial and technical
support with a knowledgeable customer service staff and a
worldwide supply of catalytic technologies. At BASF, we
add value to the overall catalyst experience from
development through support after the sale.

Expert Technical Support

Global Manufacturing Presence

Utilizing our expertise in the development and application

of catalyst technologies, we provide products for our
customers specific requirements. Our comprehensive
technical services consist of:

With the largest global research and development

capabilities, joint ventures with other industry leaders,
and manufacturing sites spread throughout the globe (see
Figure 21), BASF has the ability to serve our customers
quickly and efficiently.

Specialists in catalytic applications

Global locations that provide regional support

 haring of knowledge and ideas within the BASF

S
global network

Knowledgeable Customer Service

Our customer service representatives provide guidance
and address the questions that need to be answered.
We are there to meet your needs with:
n

 representative assigned specifically to your account

A
throughout the order process
 esponse to customer calls and requests on the
R
day they are received
 ur extensive Customer Service Network with
O
3 centralized hubs
Assistance provided in your preferred language

Manufacturing

R&D Sites

UK
US

Europe

Spain

Netherlands
Germany
Italy

Korea
China

Japan

India

North
America

South
America

Thailand

Asia
Pacific*
Brazil

Africa

South
Africa
*Includes joint ventures

Figure 21: Global manufacturing and R&D presence

53

Comprehensive Supply Chain

No matter where you base your operations, BASFs global
supply chain has the ability to get you the catalysts you
need. With BASFs extensive resources and outstanding
reputation, our system provides:
n

Ontime, reliable delivery

Lead time notifications and control

Inventory management

Unique functionality using SAP

Regional supply and distribution centers

Precise long and short term forecasting

Ability to influence negotiations for our customers

Quality Assurance
BASF is recognized worldwide for its quality that is
backed by:

54

ISO certification

Analytical testing capabilities

Lean SixSigma manufacturing

Operator training

Precious
Metals
Services

Look to BASF for the Precious Advantage. Our Precious Metals

Services experts offer the benefit of expertise combined with
ingenuity that is backed by BASFs global resources. As a
worldwide leader in the precious metals field, we offer our
customers a full range of products and services that include:
For precious metals
Product sourcing and sales
Product refining and recovery
Trading and hedging of gold, silver, and
Platinum Group Metals (PGMs)
n For salts, solutions, and activated metal powders
Manufacturing of precious metals chemicals for industrial
applications
n

55

BASF Evaluates and Refines Materials

at Many Facilities:
n

Seneca, South Carolina (US)

Lincoln Park, Michigan (US)

Cinderford (UK)

Rome (Italy)

Shanghai (China)

Joint venture facilities in Japan and Republic of Korea

For our Refining and Recovery Customers,

BASF Will Act as the Custodian of all Precious
Metals Contained in Customer Refining
Receipts. Our Responsibilities Include:
n

56

 inimization of dispersion through controlled, segregated

M
unit operations
 eneration of a homogeneous concentrate for
G
sample drawing
 etermination of the precious metals content of the
D
representative sample(s)
 ccurate and timely calculation and credit of metal
A
settlement content
 apid and complete response to the problems,
R
concerns, and requirements of the customer
 entralized, ISO-certified facilities for complete
C
refinement process

Contact Us
Process Catalysts
Americas
Sales & Marketing
BASF Corporation
25 Middlesex/Essex Turnpike
P.O. Box 770
Iselin, NJ 088300770
Tel: +17322055000
Fax: +17322055687
Email: catalystsamericas@basf.com
Customer Service
BASF Corporation
100 Campus Drive
Florham Park, NJ 07932
Tel: +18008899845/+19732457445
Fax: +18643325087

Asia Pacific
Sales & Marketing
BASF East Asia Regional Headquarters Ltd.
45th Floor, Jardine House
No. 1 Connaught Place
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +85227310191
Fax: +85227315634
Email: catalystsasia@basf.com
Customer Service
BASF East Asia Regional Headquarters Ltd.
45th Floor, Jardine House
No. 1 Connaught Place
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +85227311561
Fax: +85227319634

Europe, Middle East

and Africa (EMEA)
Sales & Marketing
BASF SE
GCCP E100
CarlBosch Str. 38
67056 Ludwigshafen, Germany
Tel: +496216021153
Fax: +496216043023
Email: catalystseurope@basf.com
Customer Service
BASF Nederland BV Catalysts
P.O. Box 19, 3454 ZG
De Meern, The Netherlands
Tel: +31306669555
Fax: +31306669340

Precious Metals Services

Spent Catalyst Refining
BASF Corporation
554 Engelhard Drive
Seneca, SC 29678
Toll free: 18003368559
Tel: +18648829841
Fax: +18648851374
BASF Corporation
1512 John A. Paplas Drive
Lincoln Park, MI 48146
Tel: +13133824250
Fax: +13133826374

Trading Offices
BASF Corporation
25 Middlesex/Essex Turnpike
Iselin, NJ 08830-0770
Tel: +1-732-205-5000
Engelhard Metals Limited
63 St. Mary Axe
London EC3A 8NH
England
Tel: +44-207-456-7300
BASF Metals Japan Limited
24th Floor, World Trade Center Building
2-4-1 Hamamatsu-cho, Minato-ku
Tokyo 105-6124, Japan
Tel: +81-3-3578-6661
BASF Metals (Shanghai) Limited
239 Luqiao Road
Jinqiao Export Processing Zone
Shanghai 201206
P.R. China
Tel: +86-21-6109-1885
BASF Metals GmbH
Grafenauweg 6
6300 Zug
Switzerland
Tel: +41-41-710-82-77
BASF Industrial Metals OOO
Kadashevskaya nab. 14/3
Moscow 119017
Russia
Tel: +7-495-2256490

BASF Metals Recycling Limited

Forest Vale Road
Cinderford
Gloucestershire GL 14 2PH
England
Tel: +441594827744
Fax: +441594826013
BASF Italia S.r.l.
Divisione Catalizzatori
Via di Salone, 245
00131, Rome
Italy
Tel: +3906419921
Fax: +390641992233

57

About Us
BASFs Catalysts division is the worlds
leading supplier of environmental
and process catalysts. The group
offers exceptional expertise in the
development of technologies that
protect the air we breathe, produce the
fuels that power our world, and ensure
efficient production of a wide variety
of chemicals, plastics, and other
products. By leveraging our industryleading R&D platforms, passion for
innovation, and deep knowledge of
precious and base metals, BASFs
Catalysts division develops unique,
proprietary catalyst and adsorbent
solutions that drive customer success.
BASF - The Chemical Company

58

Americas
BASF Corporation
25 Middlesex/Essex Turnpike
Iselin, New Jersey 08830, USA
Tel: +1-732-205-5000
Fax: +1-732-205-7725
Email: catalysts-americas@basf.com
Asia Pacific
BASF East Asia Regional HQ Ltd.
45th Floor, Jardine House
No. 1 Connaught Place
Central, Hong Kong
Email: catalysts-asia@basf.com
Tel: +852-2731-0191
Europe, Middle East, Africa
BASF SE
67056 Ludwigshafen, Germany
Email: catalysts-europe@basf.com
Tel: +49-621-60-21153

Aegis, BituPro, CLEANOx, Converter, Defender, DeOxo,

Endurance, EZ Flow, Flex-Tec, Fortress, HDUltra, HDXtra,
KC-Trockenperlen, Lynx, NaphthaClean, NaphthaMax,
Nysofact, Nysosel, OxiStar, PetroMax, Prosorb, PuriStar,
Pyrochem, SELOP, Selexsorb, SMART, SNAP, Sorbead,
SOXCAT, Stamina, and StyroStar are trademarks of BASF.
Oleflex is a trademark of UOP.

www.catalysts.basf.com/process

Although all statements and information in this publication

are believed to be accurate and reliable, they are
presented gratis and for guidance only, and risks and
liability for results obtained by use of the products or
application of the suggestions described are assumed by
the user. NO WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE, ARE MADE REGARDING PRODUCTS
DESCRIBED OR DESIGNS, DATA OR INFORMATION
SET FORTH. Statements or suggestions concerning
possible use of the products are made without
representation or warranty that any such use is free of
patent infringement and are not recommendations to
infringe any patent. The user should not assume that
toxicity data and safety measures are indicated or that
other measures may not be required. 2011 BASF
BF-9725 USL Rev. 11/11