BASF Builds New Catalyst Center with €20 Million Investment

On December 12, 2024, BASF officially inaugurated a brand new catalyst development and solid-state process center in Ludwigshafen, Germany. This center will serve as a pilot synthesis center for chemical catalysts, aimed at accelerating the delivery of innovative technologies to global customers. Additionally, this pilot facility plays a crucial role in the development of new solid-state process technologies.

Mr. Dr. K. Wiemer, President of BASF's Research Institute (RG), stated, "With advanced process facilities, our new catalyst development and solid-state process center will promote the rapid iteration and advancement of innovative catalysts and process technologies to meet the urgent needs of our customers and our commitment to a green transition. This center represents a significant investment in the future R&D activities at the Ludwigshafen site."

Catalysts play a vital role in the chemical industry. Over 80% of chemical products utilize catalysts at least once during the production process. Catalysts not only reduce energy demand and the generation of undesirable byproducts but also minimize raw material consumption and the carbon footprint of products. The application of catalysts spans the chemical and petrochemical industries, as well as innovative processes critical to the green transition. BASF develops catalysts and process technologies for global customers while also applying these latest applications in its own production facilities.

Dr. Detlef Ruff, BASF's Senior Vice President and head of global process catalysts, stated, "At the new center, BASF will focus on developing and optimizing innovative process technologies and catalytic processes. The technical capabilities of the new research facility will enhance our innovation momentum and boost our competitiveness in the global market. The center provides ideal conditions for scaling up catalysts developed in the laboratory, enabling us to provide high-quality pilot samples of new catalysts to our customers. This allows us to respond more flexibly to market demands and deliver innovative technological solutions more rapidly, which is a key factor in successfully launching new products."

BASF replaced the existing building within three years to establish this brand new center. The new building is equipped with state-of-the-art safety facilities and incorporates numerous cutting-edge technologies to support R&D activities, with total project investment reaching several tens of millions of euros.