Lower by-products, higher selectivity for pentaerythritol production: Clariant’s calayst at Yihua plant
Last update on Jun 1, 2026
Clariant announced the successful operation of its FAMAX formaldehyde catalysts at two production facilities operated by Yihua Group in China.
Yihua Group has commissioned two formaldehyde plants in China using FAMAX catalysts, integrated with process technology from Wuxi Xiyuan Engineering Technology. The 120 kt/a facility in Hubei province was commissioned in November 2025; the 100 kt/a plant in Inner Mongolia started up in March 2026.
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Higher reaction selectivity with lower by-product formation
According to Clariant, the FAMAX catalyst's geometry reduces pressure drop by 10–15% compared to standard configurations. The supplier reports that its chemical composition supports lower-temperature operation while maintaining reduced hotspot temperatures — contributing, per Clariant, to higher reaction selectivity and lower by-product formation.
Yihua Group's project management team confirmed that both facilities have met their production targets and are supplying the quality of formaldehyde feedstock required for their pentaerythritol manufacturing operations.
VOC conversion efficiency of up to 99%
Clariant's EnviCat emission control catalyst was selected for off-gas treatment at both plants. According to the supplier, the catalyst achieves VOC conversion efficiency of up to 99% at operating temperatures up to 400°C, with reported reductions in fuel consumption and equipment thermal stress.
Both formaldehyde plants feed Yihua Group's pentaerythritol production units. Pentaerythritol is a multifunctional alcohol used in alkyd resins, synthetic lubricants, and flame retardants, segments where feedstock consistency directly affects downstream formulation performance.
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