Decarbonizing BTX Aromatics Extraction: The Role of Techtiv™ Solace in Energy Efficiency

Introduction: The Urgency of Decarbonization in Refining and Petrochemicals

The drive to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption is reshaping the future of the refining and petrochemical industries. As global standards and regulations tighten, operators must seek solutions that deliver both environmental and operational performance. Sulzer, a leader in separation technologies, has developed the Techtiv™ Solace solvent—a next-generation drop-in solution for BTX extraction that delivers breakthrough energy savings, sustainability, and process reliability.

How Techtiv™ Solace Powers Sustainable BTX Extraction

Lower Energy Use Immediate Impact

Techtiv™ Solace is engineered to work at significantly lower solvent-to-feed ratios than traditional options like sulfolane. This design innovation directly reduces requirements for steam, electricity, and cooling water in Liquid-Liquid Extraction (LLE) and Extractive Distillation (ED) units. Sulzer’s expertise ensures that refineries and petrochemical plants benefit from lower energy costs and a smaller carbon footprint—often achieving visible improvements within weeks of implementation.

Drop-In, No-Downtime Transition

Unlike conventional upgrades, Techtiv™ Solace is a true drop-in solvent. Units can switch to Solace online, without waiting for expensive plant turnarounds or operational shutdowns. This means plants achieve decarbonization and capacity goals faster without major capital expenditure, equipment changes, or lost production.

Direct Carbon Emissions Reduction

By slashing utility consumption, the adoption of Techtiv™ Solace cuts operational CO₂ output, supporting corporate sustainability commitments and making it easier for operators to track, verify, and report emissions reductions. The solvent’s stable, non-toxic formulation helps safeguard process reliability and minimizes the risk of environmental incidents.

Real-World Performance Advantage

Refineries that implement Sulzer’s Techtiv™ Solace technology see measurable improvements in extraction yield, utility demand, and emissions intensity. For example, units operating with Techtiv-class solvents have reported recovery rates of 99.9%+, dramatic reductions in steam and cooling requirements, and easier compliance with decarbonization regulations.

Sulzer and Techtiv: Leadership in Sustainable Solvent Technology

Sulzer’s GT-BTX™ processes utilize the full suite of Techtiv™ solvents, blending deep R&D knowledge with operational experience to maximize energy efficiency and mass transfer. Advanced solvents like Techtiv™ Solace are custom-formulated for evolving feedstocks and plant objectives, supporting both new projects and upgrades to existing assets.

Conclusion: A Faster Path to Sustainable, Profitable BTX Extraction

As the demand for greener, more efficient aromatics recovery grows, Sulzer’s Techtiv™ Solace is a proven technology for operational decarbonization and energy cost reduction. The solution offers drop-in, immediate improvements in process efficiency, capacity, and emissions all with the backing of Sulzer’s global expertise.

Contact Sulzer now to learn how Techtiv™ Solace can help your facility meet energy and sustainability targets in BTX aromatics extraction.