• Polymer Program
  
• Process Technology Reports
• R&D Program - Direct and Multi-Client Sponsored
• Catalyst Industry Reports and Special Topics
• Technology Transfer
• Environmental Program
  

POLYMER PROGRAM

The Catalyst Group is the preeminent consulting group for tracking and assessing the technology of metallocene catalysts in their advancement from R&D to commercial processes. We monitor the applications of both metallocene and Ziegler-Natta catalyst systems in the manufacture of polyolefins, styrenics, elastomers and copolymers worldwide. State-of-the-art advancements in stereoregulation, initiator and blends/alloys technology are also tracked.

Polymers in Transition - The Model

The recent advances and changes in polymer- and elastomer-related technologies are unprecedented, driving the potential for massive polymer industry structural changes. These technological advances will particularly impact the markets for mid-range polymers, including; polyolefins, PVC, elastomers, and engineering plastics/styrenics. These polymer advances will strongly promote intermaterial competition based on the new polymers and subsequently drive strategic redirection of the industry, creating a new industry paradigm known as "Polymers In Transition".

This paradigm reinforces the view that recent technical advances are causing the boundaries between polymer families to become blurred and the cost/value picture for individual materials to undergo major shifts. As a result, the nature of intermaterial competition has changed, which directly impacts the market positions of the competitors. Therefore, Polymers In Transition is a good description of the changing industry environment.

The Catalyst Group (TCG) has completed a new study program, Polymers in Transition: The Impact Of New Technology On The Polymer Industry, which is the first study of its kind to assesses these novel technological developments: their nature, their impact on present markets, and a forecast of future impacts yet to be realized. Never before has such a study evaluated and predicted the changing polymer markets of the future, where simultaneous impacts are occurring among polyolefins, PVC, elastomers, and engineering plastics. Some of the technology advances and markets included are:

Polymer Family	Technology & New Products Assessed
Polyolefins	Metallocenes, Super-Condensation, New Z/N, etc.
PVC	Ethane Chlorination, New Compounds, etc.
Elastomers	Metallocene EPDM, Gas-Phase Process, TPEs, etc.
Engineering Plastics & Styrenics	Polycondensation (PET/PEN), Single-Site (COC), Adiponitrile routes to Nylon, sPS, ESI, etc.

The study provides in-depth assessments of the intermaterial competitive impacts, showing how the different polymer systems interact among themselves and with other polymers. Copyrighted "Expert system" software is the backbone of the intermaterial analysis, comparing polymer properties and cost-in-use with application requirements.

Because this study is intended as a business/technology planning tool, it can be tailored for each specific client. The core study provides the basis for subscription and additional strategic analysis options, including access to the software package, is available.

The core study was available in December, 1997. Clients will have a choice regarding the level of program participation. Optional strategic assistance and software acquisition is available after initial subscription. Back to top

Polypropylene: The Status, The Challenges, and The Strategies To Survive and Excel In The 1990s and Beyond

This study is the most comprehensive and up-to-date assessment of the polypropylene industry and the revolutionary technologies which have begun to shape its future. In the report, TCG has examined the growing importance of recent reactor and post-reactor process advancements and their impacts on PP in its major enduse markets. In addition to the novel materials available from the technology, including metallocene-derived PP (iPP and sPP), the outlook for PP business alliances and the impacts on future licensing are addressed. It is clear that the introduction of new materials and the entry of new participants in the global PP industry will increase the significance of all R&D and business development decisions. Published: May 1995. Back to top

Polyvinyl Chloride: Technology, Legislative Issues, And Competitive Advanced Polyolefins

The competitive environment in which PVC and polyolefin manufacturers produce and market their products has changed: the traditional factors determining product selection decisions, namely cost and performance, have been complicated by the introduction of resins made via new processes claiming improved characteristics. As well, PVC has faced an increasingly visible and potentially significant influence, external to the market itself: environmental concerns and the "threat" of legislation.

In this report, The Catalyst Group has conducted a comprehensive review of PVC in its markets and identified the applications where it is both least and most competitive. Whether it is due to processing, final product, or performance properties, PVC's role in comparison to commodity and specialty polyolefins is discussed. This unique and timely report will be of critical value to PVC producers, polyolefins producers, and PVC converters/processors. Published: September 1994. Back to top

Biopolymers -- Rapidly Evolving Competitive Processes

This report focuses on a comprehensive review of existing and future processes used to manufacture biopolymers for biodegradable surfactants. Special emphasis will be placed on emerging new products, and detailed comparative production economics of competing processes. End use markets that will be impacted by the new technologies are analyzed in detail, and market forecasts are provided to assess monetary impact on these emerging technologies. Published April 1993. Back to top

Styrene and Diene Metallocene Polymer Technology - Technical/Commercial Advances

This follow-up report, which complements the polyolefin metallocene report listed below, explores rapidly developing syndiotactic PS, direct EPDM elastomers, advanced elastomers and diene and vinyl/polyolefin copolymer developments that will follow in this critically important new technology. TCG is recognized worldwide as preeminent in this field having followed developments since 1987. Published August 1992. Back to top

Advanced Comonomer Polyolefins Using Metallocene Catalysis - The Third Generation

This report provides the latest release in our polymer program, with key commercialization issues, cost analysis, forecasts, new catalyst designs and in-depth technical/commercial strategic analysis and extensive/original market survey work on actual enduse development of specific markets. A must for whether you intend to be commercially involved or not in a business that is committed to evaluating development. Published May 1992. Back to top

Current Polymerization Catalysts - Peroxide, Azo and Other Initiators

Environmental safety and market conditions have caused significant shifts in the polymer initiator market, as well as changes in sources of supply. Our study provides recommendations to clients about future catalyst, commercial and product development trends for initiators, and updates the size and regional growth in North America, Western Europe and Japan. The benchmark and only report available to the industry. Published October 1991. Back to top

Current Polymerization Catalysts - Ziegler/Natta Catalysts, Co-Catalysts And Stereoregulators

An expanded report on the catalyst design and process changes, new licensed processes, commercial developments, as well as in-depth expansion on the size and growth of the Z/N catalyst business worldwide, since our mid-1989 report. It includes further review of key processes including; CATALLOY, FLEXOMER, Spherilene PE, Quantum Q and other leading product technologies, like Chisso/Amoco highly crystalline PP. Leading catalyst developments are discussed by key developers. Published July 1991. Back to top

Advanced Manufacturing Techniques For Homogeneous Stereocontrolled Polymerizations - An Economic Evaluation

This report evaluates the economics and technical hurdles in commercializing laboratory to pilot scale and commercial reactor scale up conditions (both slurry and gas-phase) for stereocontrolled polyolefins and styrenics produced with new metallocene catalysts and combined techniques. This new technology is of large importance to the polymer industry because new properties can be produced using this emerging technology. In other studies, we have determined this specialty polymers business could be worth billions during the next decade. Published March 1991. Back to top

Technical Advances In Reactive Processing For Blends/Alloys Production 1990-2000

Although not new, the growth of alloying and blending of polymers has exploded over the last five years. The growth rate is projected to exceed 15%/yr from 1.9 MIL mt/yr in 1988 to over 3.9 MIL mt/yr by 1995. Our report will examine current and future physical processing and chemical (reaction) technical advances to the year 2000, including developing new alloy polymers and markets made possible through advanced compatibilizers, only recently being patented. A detailed discussion on how these compatibilizers dictate the future of various types of polymers ranging from polyolefins, nylons, acrylics, styrenics, polyesters, PVC and PBT/PFT. Our technical/business report takes a hands-on guide to new technologies by leading scientists and practitioners in the field, strategically viewing the opportunities of advanced compatibilizers. Published November 1990. Back to top

Technical Advances and Commercial Opportunities In Syndiotactic, UHMW, Copolymer and Block Copolymerization - The Next Decade

This study explores technical and commercial advances in Kaminsky type metallocene catalyst/cocatalyst systems, specifically for syndiotactic and copolymer reactions. Expanding applications and processing chemistry of ultra high molecular weight (UHMW) polyolefins and others, as well as the use of Ring Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP) technology for polyacetylenes and block copolymers by coordination catalysis. Group Transfer Polymerization (GTP) advances, e.g., aluminum porphyrins for block copolymers of alkyl acrylates, epoxides or lactones for polyester and polyethers. These technologies will be brainstormed for new technical product/new market developments, as well as for their potential cross-fertilization in technology developments. A hands-on document, written by leading scientists in each field. Published June 1990. Back to top

Advances In Catalyst Designs And Processes For Innovative Thermoplastic Polymers

This technical/strategic study concentrates on identifying advanced catalyst designs and processes that will have a significant commercial impact on the polymer industry over the next 5-10 years. It utilizes the Delphi Technique with a team of renowned polymer experts to brainstorm and forecast the major technical and commercial opportunities in the industry; and also offer strategic recommendations to capitalize the near-term and future commercial developments. Published June 1989. Back to top

PROCESS TECHNOLOGY REPORTS

Our Process Technology Report Program covers developments in technology for both refining and chemicals. These reports fall into three categories: (1) very specific, in-depth updates; e.g., refinery alkylation; or (2) broader updates on emerging new technologies that will challenge existing processes; e.g., C1-C5 Basic Chemicals; or (3) those that cover both industries; e.g., solid acid catalyst developments.

Advances In Hydrocracking/ Hydrotreating Processing To Meet Future Refinery Needs

DESCRIPTION
Combinations of hydrotreating and hydrocracking processing will be critical for achieving the more stringent fuel specifications of the next Millennium. This study provides a comprehensive review of available process technologies as well as catalyst design and developmental needs. Published November 1997. Back to top

C1-C5 Basic Chemicals - Technical and Commercial Advances 1996-2000

DESCRIPTION
This is a follow-up to TCG's previous Basic Chemicals series and updates process and commercialization developments since our 1993 report. Published November 1996. Back to top

Commercial and Technical Developments in Solid Acid Catalyst Processes

Solid Acid II is an update of TCG's May, 1992 benchmarking report. This report focuses on commercial, economic and process comparisons of refinery alkylation, aromatics and organic chemicals based on solid acid catalysts. Oligomerizations of light olefins to fuels and chemicals is also featured. Publication November 1995.
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Future Aromatic Technologies - Commercial Opportunities, Derivatives And Economics: 1994-2000

A benchmarking economic process and status report on the shifts in aromatic chemicals technology deployment 1989 to present. Special emphasis is placed on (1) p-xylene and its derivatives, including isomerization, manufacturing issues and absorbent vs. crystallization separation, (2) regular vs. selective economics in BTX, disproportionation and ethylbenzene production, and (3) regional supply/demand and producer site advantages/disadvantages. A timely and critical review of new technology impacts. Publication March 1995. Back to top

The Optimization of Hydrogen in Refinery Processing

Activity is intense for refinery HYDROGEN sourcing because large amounts are needed to improve fuel quality. Our report allows refiners in Europe, South America, and the Far East to benefit from past US experience, as well as evaluate worldwide advances to access incremental hydrogen sources. Volume I "Production, Recovery and Reuse Techniques" details steam reforming, reforming and partial oxidation improvements to enhance on-site production. New membrane technologies for recovery and reuse are featured. Volume II "Optimizing Hydroprocessing Consumption" looks into new catalyst/process combinations in HDS, hydrocracking and resid upgrading to reduce typical hydrogen requirements. A special feature will examine biocatalysis HDS technologies, a forefront development. Publication June 1994. Back to top

Skeletal Isomerization, Dehydrogenation and Dimerization/
Disproportionation

A very timely report which evaluates the in-depth impact of new light olefins technology for both refiners and cracker operators. A process and R&D competitive benchmark analysis, performed to the depth required for meaningful discussions with licensors now and for future process advancements on competitive and alternative routes. A serious process engineering evaluation. Published February 1993. Back to top

C1-C5 Basic Chemicals - Technical and Commercial Advances 1992-1995

In 1990, TCG completed a detailed two-part report, giving chemical and petroleum companies an important update on emerging technologies for Fischer-Tropsch, methane conversion, ethylene technology, oligomerization, isomerization, propylene and butane conversion. It became an industry standard. In this update we examine and expand on these developments; the latest economics, test results and new technologies that have emerged since, such as new DME technologies, new syngas Fischer-Tropsch processes and much more. TCG leads in comparing pilot technologies to existing commercial benchmarks. Published January 1993.
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Catalytic Membrane Reactors - Advances and Competing Technologies

Process schemes combining catalysis with separation are becoming commercially important. These are advancing because of new material development breakthroughs in polymers, ceramics and composite metal membrane design. Key targets are dehydrogenation, esterification and etherification dehydration processes. This report contains an abundance of key information that can only be obtained from original field survey work. Almost all these advances are occurring as inside petrochemical company developments. Published September 1992. Back to top

The Impact of New Technologies on Refinery Oxygenates and Ethers: The Future for MTBE, Economics and Worldwide Supply/Demand Shifts

Worldwide MTBE capacity is rapidly expanding with many existing studies on supply/demand based on legislation. However, no report takes a pragmatic look on the most important factor - new changing technology options that will shift the need for US or European refineries to buy outside MTBE and/or product substitution by 1995/1996. A timely analysis, that may significantly affect the business. Important to MTBE or methanol suppliers, licensors, engineering contractors and financial partners in these ventures. Published October 1992. Back to top

Commercial and Technical Developments in Solid Acid Catalyst Processes 1992-1996

Over the last five years, considerable R&D effort has been undertaken to develop and replace traditional HF, H2SO4 and AlCl3 catalyzed reaction with alternative solid acid processes in refining, petrochemical and chemical applications. Many major industrial replacement technologies are already being commercialized. Over 100 MIL mt/yr of product are currently manufactured using alkylation, acylation, oligomerization, and acid oxidation catalytic processes. A report that should not be missed, based on its commercial/technical impact. Published May 1992. Back to top

Specialty Zeolites in Catalysis 1992-1996

An updated and expanded report on the changes impacting the use of zeolites, since our 1987 study. This study focuses on new catalyst processes, commercial activities and the expanding environmental and automobile catalyst market segments. These factors, including industry consolidation over the last five years, are changing the competitive structure of this industry. An authoritative industry report, written by the leading developers from within the industry. Over 70 new technologies reviewed. Published May 1992. Back to top

Advances in Separation and Catalytic Membrane Reactor Technology

Over the last 10-15 years there have been significant advances made in separations technology, including many hybrid systems that will significantly improve the economics and challenge distillation in refining and petrochemicals. An advancing field has combined separation and process technology via catalytic membrane systems. TCG's study covers worldwide developments comparing advances from a technical and economic point of view. This report highlights commercial opportunities for clients and quantifies the benefits arising from improved performance, as well as energy cost savings. Published December 1991. Back to top

Commercial and Technical Advances in Hydrogenation/ Hydrolysis Processes

Over the last five years, a number of new hydrogenation, hydrogenolysis and hydrolysis technologies have been developed that are being commercialized to produce chemicals via processes and new feedstock routes. These developments indicate a wealth of opportunity in esters, alcohols, amines and new routes from C2-C4 feedstocks. Our study accesses chemical enduse market impacts (supply/demand), feedstock patterns and process economic comparisons for these emerging technologies against established routes. Published December 1991 with a supplement update in June 1992. Back to top

Refinery Alkylation: An Environmental, Technical and Process Assessment

This report is unique in that it addresses, in a single source, the many burning issues facing the refinery industry in adopting this process for octane enhancement, safety, regulations, modifications, new technologies, supply/demand, process advances and an overall strategic assessment. No other detailed assessment available to the industry. Published June 1991. Back to top

Olefin Feedstocks for Future Fuels - Reconfiguration Economics and Advanced Technologies

To meet legislated reformulated gasoline standards in the US and pending changes in Europe and Japan, refiners need to evaluate changing refinery unit operations to meet lower aromatics, limit RVP and maintain (boost) octane. This reconfiguration will center around reutilization of olefin off-gas streams because most refiners will find themselves short on both gasoline liquid volume and octane. TCG's new study examines in depth process economics, new emerging technology options, etc. to provide practical answers to some of the key economic and volume questions. Published March 1991. Back to top

The International Hydrocracking Market - Part II

An updated and expanded report on the changes impacting the use of hydrocracking since our 1987 report. This study focuses on catalyst design, commercial activities, process advances and the changing role of hydrocracking as an important contributor to future reformulated fuels and, as a swing process to meet future environmental standards. Developments in this market are covered through the year 2000. Project Manager Mr. George Weidenhammer, Former Director of Hydrocracking and Isomerization Catalyst, Union Carbide and UOP Inc. Published September 1990. Back to top

C1-C5 Basic Chemicals - Commercial and Technical Opportunities, Legislative Impacts and Economics - Parts I & II

The objective is to provide a comprehensive, yet detailed technical/business evaluation and assessment of economics in new developing technologies that are expected to have a significant impact on the choice of feedstock, over the next decade. Part I (available separately) focuses on C1-C2 technology advances, including methane conversion, ethylene technology, oligomerization, Fischer-Tropsch, etc. Part II focuses on C3-C5 technology advances, including propylene (various), isomerization, butane conversion, higher alcohols and additives for alternative motor fuels. Still a leading world authoritative source. Comparing newly emerging technology against industry standards. Published October 1990.
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Future Aromatic Technologies - Commercial Opportunities, Legislative Impacts and Economics

A detailed technical/business evaluation of current developments in commercial aromatics, derivatives, catalysts and related processes. Investigates: new aromatic processes being developed in Japan, Europe and North America, pending aromatic legislation, company/technology strategies and commercial impact opportunities. Published November 1989. Back to top

Predictive Catalyst Design and Process Advances for Specialty Organic Chemicals - Commercial and R&D Opportunities for the Next Five Years

A unique strategic, process/commercial evaluation of past, current and future catalytic processes and how heterogeneous, homogeneous and phase-transfer catalysts will provide low cost, high yield manufacturing processes for high demand specialty organic chemicals and intermediates. It utilizes the Delphi Technique with a team of leading scientists in the field to offer real world answers. Published December 1989. Back to top

New HDS Catalyst Designs and Processes to Meet Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel Standards - Innovative Technology Solutions

The US and European refining industry faces a potential investment of $US3-4 BIL for new or revamped hydrodesulfurization (HDS) capacity to meet low sulfur and low aromatic fuel standards over the next few years based on current HDS process and catalyst limits, as well as the lack of poison tolerance for aromatic saturation catalyst processes. A team of process and catalyst formulation consultants investigate innovative improvements to utilize existing equipment. Published November 1989. Back to top

Zeolite Molecular Sieve Adsorbent Industry - Commercial Strategy and New Business Development Assessment

This unique study encapsulates invaluable technical, marketing and strategic information about the Zeolite Molecular Sieve (ZMS) technology in North America, Western Europe/Middle East. It also compares and analyzes the fast-growing membrane producers and end-users in the separation industry. Published January 1989. Back to top

Zeolite in Catalysis - International, Commercial and Technical Progress - Part II

Examines zeolite catalyst developments in the USSR, Eastern Bloc, China and the Third World. Includes A, X, Y and all zeolite types. Also updates leading zeolite R&D, including large pore and new material zeolites. This study is unique, providing detailed catalytic unit data by country, zeolite production and consumption for catalysts and the latest R&D/commercial development status. It also analyzes and predicts commercial and catalyst developments. Published December 1988.
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Specialty Zeolites in Catalysis - International, Commercial and Technical Progress - Part I

Completed December 1987, and is available for immediate shipment. This report examines Western capacity, technology and use of special catalysts for new processes over the next decade. Published December 1987. Back to top

The International Hydrocracking Market- A Technology, Capacity And Process Assessment 1982-1992

This report provides a comprehensive update on changes that have impacted the hydrocracking market since 1983, with an international perspective. The scope includes evaluations on the size, competitive environment, process and catalyst developments, as well as information from personally contacting and evaluating market data from the catalyst manufacturers and petroleum refiners. It also predicts the technical processes, markets, and catalyst developments from 1987 through 1995. Published June 1987. Back to top

R&D PROGRAMS - DIRECT AND MULTI-CLIENT SPONSORED

The Catalyst Group provides multi-client studies, as status reports on new, key emerging technologies that are monitored for commercial clients on a continuous basis. Technologies monitored include:

• Refinery Alkylation, including Solid Acid
• Zeolite Process Advances
• C1-C5 Basic Chemical New Technologies
• Metallocene Catalysis, Polymer and Other
• Biocatalysis Process Advances
• Membrane Process Advances
• Oxygenate Process Advances
• Solid Acid Catalyst Process Advances
• Catalytic Membrane Reactor Technology
• Hydrocracking
• Ziegler/Natta Polyolefin Advances
• Blends/Alloys Technology
• Hydrogenation Catalysis
• Chiral Intermediate Catalytic Technology
• Specialty Organic Chemicals Processes
• Oxidation Catalysis
• Hydroprocessing Technology
• Peroxide, Azo and Other Polymer Initiators
• SCR NOx
• Spent Catalyst Disposal Technology
• Catalyst Industry
• Esterification Advances
• Etherification, MTBE

As part of this program, we identify R&D opportunities that become important to new technology applications. Those relating to specific clients' opportunities are treated as client confidential projects and promoted directly. Those pertaining to multi-client opportunities are promoted as multi-client R&D programs, where a group of companies can share in the expense and benefits in a nonconflicting manner.

Based on our wealth of knowledge and worldwide contacts, The Catalyst Group has been extending their capabilities to clients interested in these services. Due to the confidentiality of the projects, we do not list them. However, inquiries are welcome from clients with specific needs in these areas.

TCG has a proven track record of developing new products, processes, and catalysts in refining, chemicals, and polymers. We even provide "innovation" for our clients, including a record of filing patents on behalf of the companies. Back to top

CATALYST INDUSTRY REPORTS AND SPECIAL TOPICS

CATEXPERT Release 2.2

This interactive program literally saves hours of time consuming literature and patent referral searches to confirm the validity and value of technical/commercial ideas and leads. It is designed to speed-up your organization's capability to prescreen current R&D and commercial development ideas. A presentation and Demo Disk are available.

CATEXPERT is an applications program that if used just five times in one year, will achieve a one year payback. The program contains interactive industry data from over 15,000 patents, over 12,000 literature references, and the most comprehensive available listing of commercial catalysts used by process ever assembled. Back to top

Intelligence Report: "Business Shifts in the Global Catalyst Industry 1997-2000"

For 1998, (our 7th Edition) we have expanded the report and included two new sections vitally important to the industry. (1) Section VI: Business Value Chain and Value Added in the Catalyst Industry and (2) Section VII: Technology Investments in the Catalyst Industry by Producer. Back to top

Business Shifts in the Global Catalyst Industry 1995-1998

For 1996, (our 6th Edition) we have emphasized consolidation trends analysis, licensing and R&D engineering changes/imports. Published March 1996. Back to top

Business Shifts in the Global Catalyst Industry 1993-96

For 1994, we have combined our biannual international and North American reviews into one globally-based study accessing catalyst industry, refining, chemical, and environmental applications. The major impetus being the worldwide recession and the vast structural changes that have impacted both suppliers and technology users alike. Published May, 1994. Back to top

The North American Catalyst Industry - 1992

Our biennial report (published since 1986) is recognized as the industry standard reference. New environmental regulations for reformulated gasoline, CFC elimination, VOC regulation, NOx and SOx and process waste minimization have prompted condensing historical and industrial forecast data into summaries to focus on detailed impacts by process. We expanded sections on biocatalysis, new processes to meet regulations and the new recycling industry. Published February 1992. Back to top

The International Catalyst Industry - 1991

This report complements our popular "North American Catalyst Industry" report. It examines the worldwide balance of the catalyst industry (outside of North America) including Europe, the Middle East, Japan, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the CIS, and other regions. Similar in format, it examines end use consumption by process/catalyst type, as well as international trade balance statistics between regions, international process construction, technology and business trends relevant to the catalyst industry. Published April 1991. Back to top

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER PROGRAM

A natural extension derived from our R&D Program exposure occurs in technology transfer opportunities. The Catalyst Group maintains constant contact between the field and our clients. As technology of commercial potential and value becomes identified, we seek matches with our clients' internal needs.

In leading scientific subject areas like (1) metallocene chemistry for polyolefins and fine chemicals conversion, (2) zeolite petroleum and chemical catalysis, (3) solid acid catalysis, (4) Ziegler/Natta chemistry, (5) oxygenates/ethers synthesis, and (6) chiral organic chemistry, The Catalyst Group is recognized worldwide as the leading development consulting organization involved with these subjects.

In this unique role, The Catalyst Group acts as an initiator and facilitator and gets remuneration for its services in completing the "due diligence" and transfer agreement. The Catalyst Group maintains this policy for several important reasons: (a) to remain independent, (b) to avoid placing itself in perceived conflict with its clients, and (c) to ensure clients understand that we do not compete between industrial firms in selectively obtaining technology for one firm vs another.

The Catalyst Group handles the transfer of technology both into and out of large companies. The Catalyst Group has unique strengths and skills involving: (a) technology at bench to pilot scale; (b) R&D but highly commercially valuable technologies, that may or may not be under published patent; and (c) commercially proven, licensable or acquirable technology that may not necessarily be widely known.

We maintain an internal non-confidential listing of "technologies needed" and "technologies available" for our clients. This listing is accessed internally periodically or upon request when technology is sorted.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM

ECCI, a division of The Catalyst Group, interfaces by providing leading environmental assessments for competing catalytic and non-catalytic technologies, waste minimization process reports and feedstock purification technologies. It services all industries including refining, chemical, and the utility industry with SCR, FGD and alternative NOx strategies. Its focus is to provide state-of-the-art client confidential and multi-client assessments where applicable.

Emerging Catalytic Technologies for the Treatment of Aqueous Hazardous Petrochemical and Refining Process Wastes

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the developing catalytic and thermochemical processes that will provide economic, permitting or performance advantages over incineration or deep well injection for treating aqueous process waste streams contaminated with organic compounds. Each process is evaluated in terms of technological feasibility, development status, market potential during the next decade and process economics, as well as site considerations. The costs, advantages and disadvantages involved with the use of these processes will be compared with the cost and performance of competing processes. ECCI examines new technologies including: catalyzed wet oxidation, supercritical water oxidation, photochemical oxidation and many others that will assist clients in making waste treatment technology choices. Published June 1992. Back to top

Status of Selective Catalytic Reduction for NOx Control in Electric Power Generation Applications

A report update focusing on operating experiences in utility applications since 1989. Commercial operation is now able to obtain 90% NOx reduction and emissions of less than 10 ppm based on experience, operating costs along with new advanced catalyst designs have declined (at least a factor of 4 since 1970). Continued monitoring of actual industry experience is therefore critical, as state and local authorities begin to demand higher standards. Published March 1992. Back to top

Environmental Technology Assessment Profiles (ETAP)

A mini-report service that provides brief yet comprehensive assessments of selected environmental technologies focusing on catalytic processes. Each report includes evaluations covering the development status, market potential and technical feasibility of the subject technology as well as competitive analyses of technology developers. Six ETAP reports assess the following environmental technologies: Selective Catalytic Reduction for NOx Control, Catalytic Oxidation for Volatile Organic Compound Emissions Control, Integrated Catalytic SOx/NOx Control Processes, Environmental Applications for Membrane Separation Technology, Wet Oxidation Processes for Hazardous Waste Treatment and Photocatalytic Oxidation Processes for the Treatment of Hazardous Pollutants in Aqueous Effluent Streams and Groundwater. Published during late 1991 and in 1992. Back to top

Technical and Economic Assessment of Spent Petroleum Refining Catalyst Recovery, Recycling and Disposal

Refining processes produced in excess of 580,000 mt of spent catalyst worldwide in 1990. These catalysts, which are often hazardous, must be recycled, regenerated or disposed of in an environmentally and legally compatible manner, often at substantial cost. With more stringent regulations these costs are rising. Our new study examines the technologies, regulations and future options available to assist refiners. It is an update to our well subscribed 1988 report. Published August 1991. Back to top

Advances in Selective Catalytic Reduction of NOx

This limited-client study provides a first-of-a-kind integrated technical and commercial information base for catalytic emission control. International regulations and principles of catalytic emission control are combined with a unique section on commercial catalysts. An extensive reactor and process design section is complemented by a comprehensive commercial experience section. Economics and opportunities for SCR are summarized by our international experts. Published December 1989. Back to top