Oilfield & Energies

BASF introduces new generation Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) catalyst

BASF announced today the commercial launch of Fourte, which represents a new generation of Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) catalysts for gasoil feedstock. Fourte is based on BASF’s new multiple framework topology (MFT) technology offering, and has been optimized to deliver superior selectivity to butylenes while maintaining catalyst activity, which helps refineries maximize their profits.

BASF’s innovative MFT technology enhances performance through the use of more than one framework topology that work together to tailor the catalyst selectivity profile. Successful evaluations of the new MFT technology have demonstrated Fourte’s ability to help maximize margins and provide operating flexibility to make more butylenes to feed the alkylation unit. The technology provides an answer to the increased demand for octane since today’s tighter sulfur regulations often require post treatment on the gasoline stream, which can negatively impact the octane pool.

“Fourte is the latest addition to BASF’s industry-leading, advanced refinery catalysts portfolio,” said Detlef Ruff, Senior Vice President, Process Catalysts at BASF. “We are excited about what this new technology will bring to our customers in terms of its operating flexibility and potential to make the refineries more profitable.”

“The first thing we did on our path to develop Fourte was to listen to our customers,” said Jim Chirumbole, Vice President, Refining Catalysts at BASF. “They told us they needed an innovative, flexible solution to help them make more octane for the marketplace, and we’re happy to deliver on that need today and into the future.”