12-01-2018

OMV setects hte to test competitive catalysts for light cut naphtha isomerization

hte – the high throughput experimentation company tested the performance of commercial light cut naphtha isomerization catalysts in the presence of hydrogen using a bench scale reactor system under commercially relevant conditions for the OMV Refinery in Schwechat, Austria. Based on the results, OMV is now able to decide which catalyst will be used in its refinery.

In order to benchmark commercial light cut naphtha isomerization catalysts and compare their performance, OMV selected hte for a qualification project. The overall aim of this project was to measure activity and stability of the catalysts under various process conditions. With the results, OMV is now able to decide which catalyst will be used in its refinery for light cut naphtha isomerization application. This process leads to a product with an increased octane number and is therefore important for the generation of high-performance fuels.

 hte used a single fold bench scale system with variable recycle of cold gas and the option to test up to 200 ml of catalyst in the form of full extrudates. With its integrated liquid sample collection and online liquid analysis, the reactor system can automatically track changes in the product composition. This allows a detailed analysis of the catalysts’ response to changes in process conditions.

 “We are very pleased to be selected as a partner for independent catalyst testing by OMV,” says Dr. Wolfram Stichert, CEO at hte. “This additional project proves that we have established our position in the independent catalyst testing market and can make a valuable contribution to supporting refineries and catalyst suppliers. We are looking forward to continuing our reliable and long-lasting partnership with OMV.“