BASF to increase X3D catalyst production capacity in Ludwigshafen

BASF will invest in increasing production capabilities for its X3D technology, a new additive manufacturing technology for catalysts based on 3D printing. The plant will produce catalysts on a large scale and is expected to be operational by 2026.

X3D technology represents a revolutionary leap in catalyst design and production. Catalysts produced using this technology not only have strong mechanical properties but also have an open structure that significantly reduces reactor pressure drop and increases surface area. These advances translate into improved catalyst performance, helping customers improve plant efficiency. They can benefit from higher reactor yields, higher product quality and lower energy consumption, thereby contributing to their customers’ green transition goals.

One of the main advantages of X3D technology is its versatility. It can be applied to a variety of catalytic materials, including noble and non-precious metal catalysts and supports. This flexibility allows BASF to tailor the catalyst to specific customer requirements by fine-tuning parameters such as filling pattern, fiber diameter and orientation.

Detlef Ruff, Senior Vice President Process Catalysts at BASF, said: "BASF has always been committed to leading innovation in the chemical catalyst industry. X3D represents a major advancement in catalyst production technology. We are proud to provide customers with new opportunities to help them improve their production efficiency while Reduce your carbon footprint.”

Jens Perregaard, Vice President Customized Catalysts and Innovation at BASF, said: "BASF has been successfully operating commercial plants using X3D catalysts for many years with remarkable results. The technology has the potential to shape green and conventional value