Clariant unveils groundbreaking catalysts

Clariant Catalyts has teamed up with Linde Engineering to develop new catalysts for the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane (ODH-E), an innovative, low-emissions catalytic technology for the production of ethylene. The novel catalyst is a step change in selectivity and productivity, now making ethylene production via ODH-E commercially feasible.

Clariant’s ODH catalysts are available exclusively for Linde Engineering’s innovative EDHOXTM catalytic on-purpose ethylene technology. In contrast to conventional steam cracking, which operates at process temperatures up to 900°C, EDHOXTM operates at moderate temperatures—below 400°C, enabling comparatively low CO2 emissions. Also inherent to Linde Engineering’s process are the sequestration of CO2 and the potential for electrification. Together, these differences lead to a reduction of CO2 emissions by up to 100% compared with conventional steam cracking.

“We are honored to partner with Linde Engineering on this groundbreaking innovation. Bringing together both catalyst know-how and process design expertise has resulted in a novel production technology, driving innovation and sustainability for years to come,” said Stefan Heuser, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Clariant Catalysts.

The new catalysts by Clariant are the first to offer high selectivity to ethylene and acetic acid (up to 93%) for the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane, while also demonstrating outstanding productivity at such conditions, minimizing the formation of by-products. Furthermore, the development of the new catalysts and their impact on CO2 emissions support Clariant’s objectives to drive low-carbon solutions through sustainable innovation and to generate value with safe chemistry and the responsible use of resources.

Reinhart Vogel, Vice President Petrochemical Plants at Linde Engineering, stated, “By working with Clariant Catalysts, a more sustainable, alternative path to ethylene is not only a vision, but also becoming a reality. EDHOXTM technology has now been successfully validated in a full-scale demonstration plant for commercial use. We look forward to our continued partnership together, and we continue focusing on low-cost solutions for our customers while transitioning to a greener economy.”