Axens, a global leader in providing advanced technologies, catalysts, adsorbents, and services for the energy and chemical industries, today announced the successful completion of the expansion of its Axens Catalyst Arabia Limited (ACAL) site in Saudi Arabia. This significant development introduces a new production line for state-of-the-art Tail Gas Treatment (TGT) catalysts, adding to the site's existing capacity for hydroprocessing catalyst manufacturing. This milestone positions Axens as the first and only company to produce TGT catalysts within Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East region, specifically catering to the critical needs of the oil and gas sector.

Tail Gas Treatment catalysts play a crucial role in maximizing sulfur recovery in refineries and gas processing plants. They are instrumental in converting residual sulfur compounds in the Claus plant tail gas into hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which can then be recycled back into the main sulfur recovery unit. This process is essential for achieving high sulfur recovery rates, often exceeding 99.9%, and significantly minimizing sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions, thereby contributing to a cleaner environment and compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations.

The newly operational TGT catalyst production line at the ACAL site will manufacture Axens' latest generation of TGT catalysts. These advanced catalysts are designed to operate at lower temperatures compared to conventional alternatives, leading to reduced energy consumption and lower capital expenditure (CAPEX) for operators. This technological advantage allows Axens' regional customers to enhance their operational efficiency and sustainability efforts.

Axens' expertise extends beyond TGT catalysts, encompassing a comprehensive suite of Claus catalysts. The combination of Axens' advanced Claus and TGT catalysts offers unparalleled efficiency and reliability in sulfur recovery and emissions reduction. This integrated approach ensures high recovery rates, operational flexibility, and adherence to the most demanding environmental standards.

Abdulkareem ALYAMI, ACAL’s Managing Director, emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating, "As the first company to now be able to produce Tail Gas Treatment Catalyst from the Middle East, this site expansion is a testament to Axens’ commitment to local content and promoting the local industry capacity. With this addition to Axens’ local portfolio, the ACAL expansion project is for Axens Group another initiative to support our customers handling their sustainability journey in the field of energy efficiency, in line with our 2023 CSR Report United Nations Sustainable Goals roadmap objectives. Axens Group will continue to explore with our customers opportunities to enhance our offer as well as promote the local economy and support Saudi’s Vision with our Made in Saudi portfolio."