BASF opens catalyst development and solid processing center in Ludwigshafen

On December 12, 2024, BASF officially opened its new catalyst development and solid processing center in Ludwigshafen, Germany. The research facility will become a hub for pilot synthesis of chemical catalysts, enabling BASF to make innovative technologies more quickly available to customers around the world. The pilot plant is also crucial for the development of new solid processing technologies.

“With its advanced process equipment, our new catalyst development and solid processing center enables BASF to develop innovative catalysts and process technologies more focused and quickly, which are urgently needed for us and our customers to achieve a green transition,” said Dr. Helmut Winterling, President of BASF Group Research. “It is also an important investment in future R&D activities at our Ludwigshafen site.”

80% of chemical products come into contact with a catalyst at least once during the production process. Catalysts reduce energy requirements and the number of undesirable by-products. As a result, they minimize raw material consumption and reduce the carbon footprint of products. Catalysts are used in many areas, including the chemical and petrochemical industries, as well as in innovative processes that are essential for a green transition. BASF not only develops catalysts and process technologies for global customers, but also applies them to its own manufacturing plants.

BASF will develop and optimize innovative process technologies and catalytic processes in the new center. "The technical capabilities of the new R&D center will enhance our innovation capabilities and improve our competitiveness in the global market environment," said Dr. Detlef Ruff, Senior Vice President of Process Catalysts at BASF. "The new center provides us with ideal conditions for converting catalysts developed in the laboratory to production scale. It will enable us to provide customers with high-quality pilot samples of new catalysts. As a result, we can respond to market needs more flexibly and provide innovative technical solutions faster - a key factor in the successful launch of new products."

BASF built the new center in three years to replace the old building. The new building has state-of-the-art security facilities and is equipped with many new technologies for R&D activities. The company has invested a total of tens of millions of euros in the new catalyst development and solid processing center.