Clariant to build catalyst R&D center in Shanghai

Specialty chemicals group Clariant plans to establish a new research center in Shanghai, China, the company announced on Wednesday.

The R&D center is expected to begin operation by 2015, with the goal of developing catalytic solutions tailored to Chinese market requirements and enhancing technical service support to Chinese customers.

The new catalyst R&D center in Shanghai will further strengthen Clariant´s technology portfolio and service offerings for coal-to-chemicals applications and provide a complete range of solutions for the market. 

Clariant has already established an excellent technology position on catalysts for coal-to-chemicals applications through decades of R&D efforts and collaboration with its process technology partners, according to company officials. For example, the world’s first two coal-to-propylene complexes started up with Clariant’s methanol-to-propylene (MTPROP) and methanol synthesis catalysts. 

Clariant has been serving the Chinese market through locally produced coal-to-methanol catalysts since 2011. Clariant is also one of the leading suppliers of catalysts for coal-to-ammonia conversion. 

The China R&D center will also develop new catalysts for selected base metal hydrogenation applications for the fast growing specialty chemicals industry in China. Besides R&D and technical service, the center will provide support to Clariant’s catalysts production sites in China. 

“The decision to create a major catalysts R&D center in Shanghai reflects our dedication to the market," said Stefan Heuser, senior vice president with Clariant. "By delivering enhanced products and services that answer our customers’ needs, we aim to strengthen our partnerships and presence in the region."