Selective hydrogenation is the best technology when it comes to purifying highly valuable olefinic and aromatic streams produced by steam crackers and FCC units.

Axens’ latest generation of high performance selective hydrogenation catalysts combines state-of-the-art alumina carriers and cutting edge metal impregnation technologies. High activity, easy regeneration highly competitive cost-to-fill, are among the key advantages of these catalysts. They include LD 485 (Pd-based), LD 465 (Pd-based), LD 541 (Ni-based), LD 551 (Ni-based), mainly for first stage Pygas hydrogenation, and HR 606 (CoMo) for second stage Pygas hydrogenation.

This 100th reference is the result of a close collaboration with Galp, an important actor in the European refining market. In the framework of a catalyst replacement in a Galp selective hydrogenation unit that historically used palladium-based catalysts, Axens recommended a new approach by loading LD 541, a nickel-based catalyst, due to specificities in feedstock and operation of this particular unit. “Thanks to this new approach, Galp has significantly improved the unit’s operation in terms of performance and cycle length, illustrating thus the efficiency of the relation between Axens and Galp”, stated Yoeugourthen Hamlaoui, Technologist Hydrogenation & Reforming at Axens.

With this latest generation of catalysts, the Galp Selective Hydrogenation unit performs successfully in terms of selectivity and conversion, as it also uses for the first time the multi-awarded in first stage Pygas hydrogenation LD 541.

About Axens

Axens is a group providing a complete range of solutions for the conversion of oil and biomass to cleaner fuels, the production and purification of major petrochemical intermediates as well as all of natural gas' treatment and conversion options. The offer includes technologies, equipment, furnaces, modular units, catalysts, adsorbents and related services. Axens is ideally positioned to cover the entire value chain, from feasibility study to unit start-up and follow-up throughout the entire unit cycle life. This unique position ensures the highest level of performance with a reduced environmental footprint. Axens global offer is based on highly trained human resources, modern production facilities and an extended global network for industrial, technical supports & commercial services. Axens is an IFP Group company.

About Galp

Galp is a publicly held, Portuguese-based energy company, with an international presence. Galp’s activities cover all stages of the energy sector's value chain, from prospection and extraction of oil and natural gas from reservoirs located kilometers under the sea surface, to the development of efficient and environmentally sustainable energy solutions for customers – whether large industries that seek to increase their competitiveness, or individual consumers that seek the most flexible solutions for their home and mobility needs. Galp also contributes to the economic development of the 11 countries where we operate and to the social progress of the communities that welcome us. Galp employs 6,389 people.