BASF Launches 3D Printed Catalyst Plant

Home > News

April 7, 2026 News 8960

German chemical giant BASF recently commissioned the world’s first industrial‑scale production plant for 3D‑printed catalysts at its Ludwigshafen site, marking the first time additive manufacturing of catalysts has been scaled to a commercial level.

The facility uses BASF’s proprietary X3D technology to produce catalysts that combine high mechanical strength with an open structure. This unique geometry effectively reduces pressure drop in reactors while significantly increasing the catalytically active surface area. According to BASF, compared with conventional catalysts, the X3D technology enables higher reactor throughput, improved product quality, and substantially lower energy consumption. The technology is compatible with a wide range of catalyst materials, including precious and base metals, as well as various support materials.

Prior to the official commissioning of the plant, BASF had already been supplying X3D catalysts to both internal and external customers. In 2025, Chinese fine chemical company An Hui Jintung retrofitted its production unit with BASF’s O4-115 X3D sulfuric acid catalyst. The company’s general manager stated that the unit started up smoothly and achieved record‑high production, delivering significant economic benefits. He added that the company will continue its collaboration with BASF to promote catalyst upgrades and replacements across additional units.

The startup of the Ludwigshafen plant also coincided with a leadership transition within BASF’s chemical catalysts business. Detlef Ruff, the outgoing Senior Vice President, noted that the X3D technology is already giving customers a competitive edge—enabling the rapid supply of large‑volume catalysts precisely tailored to specific process needs, helping customers improve production efficiency while making better use of raw materials. His successor, Yaqian Liu, expressed her enthusiasm for driving further innovation in this critical business area.