26-08-2021

Shell Catalysts & Technologies successfully commercializes their latest generation catalyst OparisNext

Shell Catalysts & Technologies (SC&T) has successfully commercialized OparisNext, their latest generation catalyst, at Ningbo Zhongjin PetroChemical Co, Ltd. Ningbo Zhongjin is one of the leading paraxylene (PX) producers in China.

Over the past decades, the Oparis series has offered proven catalytic benefits for key PX producers, resulting in more efficient operations and significant financial benefits. With the latest patented zeolite innovation in the OparisNext catalyst, it serves as the bedrock of attaining high ethylbenzene conversion while achieving excellent PX-ate at high space velocity (refer to charts shown below). These performance indicators are crucial in maximizing margins and strengthening the competitive position of Ningbo Zhongjin PetroChemical in the PX industry.

“We are very glad to be the first user of OparisNext, very happy to see that all the performance data can meet the guarantees. The excellent EthyleneBenzene (EB) conversion, low C8 ring loss are helping Ningbo Zhongjin to maximize operating margin. We believe the new catalyst will help us be more competitive in the PX market in China,” said Mr Li Libo, Operating Vice-President of Ningbo Zhongjin. Having total PX capacity of 1600 KTA, the EthyleneBenzene Reformer (EBR) unit has undergone a catalyst changeout to OparisNext and successfully commissioned in 2021 with stellar performance results exceeding guarantee requirements.

In addition to high-performance catalyst, SC&T also offers excellent dedicated technical support to its customers to maximize the long-term profitability of the site and thereby maintaining its stronghold market share in China. “We are pleased to see the successful commercialization of OparisNext in Ningbo Zhongjin. We are also very glad to see our market-leading EBR catalyst being the key to maximize their returns since 2005.” said Ms. Agnes Lim, Marketing Manager of Specialty Catalyst, SC&T.

As of mid-2021, SC&T maintains two-thirds of its EBR catalyst inventory in China and expected to grow given the successful commercialization of OparisNext catalyst.