National Institute of Clean-and-low-carbon Energy(NICE) under CHN Energy, in collaboration with Eindhoven University of Technology and other institutions, has achieved a major breakthrough in new catalytic technology. This research, published in Nature, marks a significant boost in China’s independent research capabilities in high-end chemicals and offers a new pathway for sustainable global chemical production.

The technology uses an innovative pure-phase χ-iron carbide catalyst to directly convert syngas into high-end chemicals, specifically linear alpha olefins. It significantly improves carbon efficiency and reduces carbon emissions, filling a gap in international technology. This breakthrough not only enhances carbon efficiency but also creates a new method for producing high-end linear alpha olefins in a single step.

Linear alpha olefins, key raw materials for advanced polyolefins, lubricants and detergents, are in increasing global demand, with consumption exceeding 6 million tons in 2023. Current global production relies mainly on ethylene oligomerization, which is costly and can only produce even-numbered carbon olefins, presenting technical challenges. China relies heavily on imports, limiting the development of its high-end chemical industry.

With CHN Energy’s breakthrough, the production cost of linear alpha olefins is expected to drop to 8,000RMB per ton upon commercialization. A coal-to-olefins plant producing 1 million tons annually could generate nearly 4 billion RMB in benefits each year. This innovation is strategically important for overcoming technological bottlenecks and advancing China’s high-end chemical industry.

Additionally, this technology has been recognized by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, and the China Association for Science and Technology as a top innovative product for 2023, being the only catalytic technology on their lists. This highlights CHN Energy’s emerging role in the global high-end chemical industry and its contribution to energy transition and technological innovation in China.