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BASF and Lutianhua plan to jointly develop a new dimethyl ether synthesis process test facility. Author/Source: Sinochem News Network. Date: June 19, 2019. Clicks: 3097. On June 18, BASF and Sichuan Lutianhua Co., Ltd. signed a memorandum of understanding aiming to build a test production facility together, with the goal of significantly reducing carbon emissions during dimethyl ether synthesis through a new process and improving energy efficiency. Dimethyl ether is an intermediate for producing low olefins such as ethylene and propylene. To date, the production of dimethyl ether from syngas still requires an intermediate step of synthesizing methanol. According to the memorandum, Lutianhua will invest in building a test facility that utilizes a new process jointly developed by BASF and Linde Group (referred to as “Linde”). BASF will supply a new high-performance catalyst system to enable one-step conversion of syngas into dimethyl ether. In addition, Linde will provide equipment design and process engineering services for the direct synthesis of dimethyl ether. Construction of this testing facility will begin in 2020. As one of China’s major chemical manufacturers, Lutianhua was among the first domestic chemical enterprises to introduce advanced international technologies on a large scale, using natural gas as raw material to produce synthetic ammonia and urea. Tan Guangjun, Chairman and Party Secretary of Lutianhua (Group) Co., Ltd., said: “Lutianhua possesses comprehensive production capabilities as well as strong skills in translating new technologies into practical applications, and it has always paid attention to the use of advanced technologies and processes.” We are pleased to collaborate with BASF to produce key chemicals in a more environmentally friendly manner. ” This breakthrough process is largely thanks to a completely new high-performance catalyst system developed by BASF’s researchers, as well as an innovative process design created by Linde that enables a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. BASF and Linde developed this technology for the direct production of dimethyl ether compounds over several years. Detlef Ruff, Global Senior Vice President for Process Catalysts at BASF, said: “This collaboration between BASF, Linde, and Lutianhua is another example of our successful partnership model with engineering companies and technology providers.” As a global leader in catalyst manufacturing, we contribute our unique expertise to this effort, while our partners are dedicated to advancing new processes and innovative future technologies. ” Dr. Zheng Daqing, Senior Vice President of BASF Global and in charge of business and market development in the Greater China region, said: “Climate protection is firmly integrated into BASF’s new corporate strategy.” This partnership will help our customers reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We will continue to work together with Lutianhua on this innovation pilot project to contribute to the development of China’s chemical industry in the field of environmental protection. ”