Clariant unveils CATOFIN 1000 slashing fouling & supercharging propylene output
By: ICN Bureau
Last updated : April 29, 2026 9:50 am
Crucially, it reduces tar precursors by up to 20%—a breakthrough that significantly lowers fouling, one of the most persistent challenges in propane dehydrogenation (PDH) plants
Clariant has unveiled a major leap in propylene production technology, launching its next-generation CATOFIN 1000 catalyst aimed at boosting efficiency while cutting costly downtime.
The sustainability-focused specialty chemicals company says the new catalyst builds on its widely used CATOFIN 310 Series, delivering sharper selectivity, higher productivity, and a longer operational life.
Crucially, it reduces tar precursors by up to 20%—a breakthrough that significantly lowers fouling, one of the most persistent challenges in propane dehydrogenation (PDH) plants.
The result: smoother operations, fewer shutdowns, and stronger returns for producers under pressure to maximize output and margins.
Clariant is pairing the launch with its CLARITY digital service platform, giving customers round-the-clock access to real-time catalyst performance data, alongside advanced monitoring and analytics tools.
The company says the platform has already helped plants improve efficiency, sustainability, and safety across its catalyst portfolio.
Jace Wang, Vice President and Head of Propylene at Business Unit Catalysts commented, "This latest advancement demonstrates our unwavering commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive superior performance for our customers in the propylene industry.
"The significant reduction in tar precursors and fouling, combined with enhanced selectivity and productivity, represents a major step forward in PDH technology."
CATOFIN technology is already a global heavyweight in olefin production, used to manufacture key building blocks such as propylene, isobutylene, and butadiene.
With CATOFIN 1000, Clariant is betting on a sharper competitive edge.