Clariant launched CATOFIN 1000 catalyst, improving PDH efficiency, reducing fouling, boosting productivity, and enhancing plant reliability.
Clariant, a sustainability-driven specialty chemicals company, has introduced CATOFIN™ 1000, its latest propane dehydrogenation (PDH) catalyst designed to enhance the production of propylene. This next-generation catalyst builds upon the strong commercial success of the well-established CATOFIN 310 Series and brings significant improvements in operational efficiency, catalyst life, and overall plant productivity. The launch marks another important step in Clariant’s efforts to provide advanced and sustainable solutions for the global petrochemical industry.
CATOFIN 1000 has been developed to offer higher selectivity and productivity compared to previous catalyst generations, helping producers maximize propylene output while optimizing feedstock utilization. One of its most notable advantages is its ability to reduce tar precursors by up to 20%, which significantly lowers fouling inside the plant. Reduced fouling is highly beneficial for PDH operators, as it decreases maintenance frequency, minimizes unplanned shutdowns, and improves the reliability of plant operations over longer production cycles. This directly contributes to lower operational costs and stronger economic returns for customers.
In addition to its improved productivity and selectivity, the new catalyst also offers an extended operational lifetime. This means plants can run for longer durations before catalyst replacement becomes necessary, further reducing downtime and improving profitability. By combining these benefits, CATOFIN 1000 delivers a strong value proposition for producers looking to improve plant efficiency while maintaining sustainable and cost-effective operations.
Clariant also supports its catalyst customers through its digital service platform, CLARITY™. This advanced portal provides 24/7 access to real-time catalyst performance data, allowing operators to monitor plant conditions continuously. Through advanced visualization tools, performance analysis, and remote monitoring capabilities, CLARITY helps customers make faster and more informed decisions regarding catalyst performance and process optimization. The platform is available across all Clariant catalyst applications and has proven effective in improving plant efficiency, sustainability, and operational safety.
Commenting on the launch, Jace Wang, Vice President and Head of Propylene at Clariant’s Business Unit Catalysts, emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation and customer value. He stated that CATOFIN 1000 reflects Clariant’s continued focus on pushing the boundaries of catalyst technology and delivering high-performance solutions for the propylene industry. According to him, the reduction in tar precursors and fouling, along with the gains in productivity and selectivity, represents a major advancement in PDH technology and supports customers in achieving superior plant performance.
CATOFIN technology is globally recognized as one of the leading solutions for producing olefins such as propylene, isobutylene, and butylene/butadiene. It is widely preferred due to its high productivity, operational reliability, and proven industrial success. The CATOFIN process combines Clariant’s customized catalysts and Heat Generating Material (HGM) with Lummus Technology’s advanced process design, creating a highly efficient and dependable production system.
This integrated technology platform has become one of the fastest-growing methods for propylene production worldwide. Since 2017, CATOFIN technology has been selected for more than 40 new projects globally, demonstrating strong industry confidence. Among these projects is a recent major 1200 KTA PDH plant award in China, further highlighting the growing demand for this technology.
The introduction of CATOFIN 1000 represents the latest advancement in this proven catalyst platform. By improving plant reliability, reducing fouling, and increasing production efficiency, the new catalyst helps operators achieve better economics and long-term operational success in an increasingly competitive market.
