- AmoMax 10 Plus catalyst started at BASF's Antwerp plant.
- Reduction achieved quickly and safely with ActiSafE technology.
- Allows operation at lower pressure and lower recycle ratio.
- Expected CO2 reduction of up to 125,000 tons over 15 years.
Introduction
Clariant's new AmoMax 10 Plus ammonia synthesis catalyst has been successfully launched at BASF's ammonia plant in Antwerp, Belgium. The catalyst reduction was efficiently completed using Clariant's proprietary ActiSafE technology.
Performance and Efficiency
AmoMax 10 Plus builds on the success of its predecessor, AmoMax 10, previously installed at BASF/Yara's joint production plant in Freeport, Texas. The new catalyst offers enhanced activity, stability, and startup speed. It allows operation at lower pressure (up to 10 bar) and a lower recycle ratio, resulting in up to 1% more ammonia at the reactor outlet.
Environmental Impact
The improved efficiency of AmoMax 10 Plus leads to significant energy savings and a reduction in CO2 emissions. For a 2,000 mtpd ammonia plant, the catalyst can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 125,000 tons over its typical 15-year lifespan. This annual reduction is equivalent to the CO2 emissions of more than 1,600 cars.
Technical Advancements
AmoMax 10 Plus is a wustite-based catalyst with an optimized promoter set, enhancing its activity and stability. This optimization is based on a deep understanding of the reaction mechanism, allowing higher per pass conversion at lower operating pressures and increased ammonia production by up to 3%.
