Chemical technology research group
Catalytic Processes Section
We specialise in research and development of heterogeneous catalytic processes on a laboratory, semi-technical and large-scale laboratory scale. Our main areas of focus are the dehydrogenation of light hydrocarbons (C₃–C₄), Fischer–Tropsch synthesis – including with the use of CO₂, thermal conversions (pyrolysis, cracking) and the design and optimisation of technological processes.
By offering comprehensive support, we enable our customers to develop efficient and innovative chemical technologies.
CONTACT
Magdalena Litwinowicz, PhD. Sc. Eng.
phone +48 516 106 996
magdalena.litwinowicz@ichp.lukasiewicz.gov.pl
We conduct research on the separation of process streams using membrane techniques and develop innovative, environmentally friendly catalytic processes and chemical technologies. Our solutions enable the efficient use of raw materials, reduce the environmental impact of processes, and develop advanced synthesis methods, including CO₂ conversion and synthetic fuel production, supporting industry in its transition to sustainable chemistry.
DESIGN AND OPTIMISATION OF TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES:
We develop and improve chemical processes that increase the efficiency of raw material use and minimise environmental impact. We carry out work from concept, through modelling and parameter selection, to verification on a large laboratory scale – we design new synthesis pathways and improve existing processes, supporting industry in the implementation of environmentally friendly standards.
RESEARCH INTO CATALYTIC PROCESSES IN SINGLE- AND MULTIPHASE SYSTEMS:
We conduct research on heterogeneous catalytic processes in various reaction systems, including gas phase, liquid phase and multiphase systems. The work is carried out using specialised installations that allow reactions to be conducted under controlled conditions of high temperature and pressure. This enables precise assessment of the activity, selectivity and stability of catalysts and their adaptation to industrial conditions.
DEHYDRATION OF LIGHT HYDROCARBONS C₃–C₄:
The team has experience in conducting dehydrogenation processes of propane, butanes and other aliphatic hydrocarbons using heterogeneous catalysts tested under conditions similar to industrial ones. The research includes both the evaluation of catalyst activity and the analysis of process parameters, which allows for the development of optimal conditions for olefin production on a laboratory and large-scale laboratory scale.
FISCHER-TROPSCH SYNTHESIS – PRODUCTION OF SYNTHETIC FUELS:
We conduct research on the Fischer–Tropsch process in an innovative two-phase installation with liquid phase circulation. The research covers both the classic GTL process and synthesis involving CO₂. Our approach enables the development of alternative fuels and supports industry in the energy transition.
CLEANING OF GAS AND LIQUID PROCESS PRODUCT STREAMS:
We deal with the purification and separation of gaseous and liquid products generated in various chemical reactions. Our work includes the removal of impurities, conditioning of raw materials and preparation of streams for further processing or analysis on a laboratory and large-scale laboratory basis. We also use membrane techniques for the separation of gases and liquids, including the purification of reaction streams and the extraction of valuable components. We use membrane techniques, select optimal operating parameters and evaluate process efficiency, providing precise and scalable separation solutions for industry.
SCALING TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES – UPSCALING AND DOWNSCALING
We scale technological processes from laboratory level, through semi-technical, to large-scale laboratory installations, ensuring reliable assessment of system behaviour in conditions similar to industrial ones.
Upscaling enables the transfer of optimised processes from the laboratory to larger research scales while maintaining quality and operational parameters.
Downscaling allows complex industrial processes to be reproduced in the laboratory – quickly, safely and in a fully controllable manner. This approach supports the design, optimisation and verification of technologies in line with the requirements of the chemical industry.
Large-scale laboratory installations and workstations:
- large-scale laboratory installation for testing the dehydrogenation process of light hydrocarbons
- large-scale laboratory facility for high-temperature processes (cracking, pyrolysis)
- unique multi-laboratory installation for the Fischer–Tropsch process
- membrane station for gas separation and purification
- facility for testing purification and separation processes using pervaporation