GT-BTX PluS™: Meeting Today's Gasoline Specifications with an Integrated One-Step Solution

Introduction

With tightening global fuel standards and evolving market dynamics, refineries must produce low-sulfur, high-octane gasoline while having flexibility to convert gasoline to petrochemicals such as aromatics for the volatile market requirement. Sulzer’s GT-BTX PluS™ offers an advanced solution delivering both high-value petrochemicals and ultra-clean fuels in a single, efficient process.

Why GT-BTX PluS™ Is the One-Step Answer

• Simultaneous BTX Recovery and Sulfur Removal

  GT-BTX PluS™ enables refineries to recover benzene, toluene, and xylenes (BTX) from FCC gasoline while removing sulfur compounds in the same unit operation. This integrated approach ensures compliance with the strictest fuel sulfur standards (down to 10 ppm or lower) without compromising octane value or gasoline yield.

  
  

• High-Octane, Low-Sulfur Gasoline Production

  The technology consistently delivers gasoline that meets or surpasses global regulatory requirements for sulfur, with no loss of octane, supporting access to premium markets and sustainable mobility goals.

  
  

• Maximized Petrochemical Value

  In addition to clean fuel, GT-BTX PluS™ extracts high-purity BTX aromatics, creating valuable feedstocks for the growing petrochemical industry. This dual capability provides refineries with diversified revenue streams and greater production flexibility.

  
  

• Operational Flexibility for Market Shifts

  GT-BTX PluS™ allows seamless switching between gasoline-focused and petrochemical modes. Refineries can adapt production strategies swiftly in response to changing regional demands, regulations, or product prices.

  
  

Main Benefits at a Glance

Benefit	Description
Dual Function	Recovers BTX for petrochemical and removes sulfur for gasoline in a single, streamlined process
Regulatory Compliance	Gasoline easily meets ultra-low sulfur limits (Euro-5, Tier-3) with preserved octane
Increased Petrochemical Value	Produces high-purity BTX aromatics for the petrochemical sector
Flexible Integration	Adapts to new builds, retrofits, or expansions; suits diverse FCC gasoline feeds
Reduced Costs and Emissions	Less energy and hydrogen use, leading to lower operating costs and a smaller environmental footprint

How It Works

• Feed Preparation: The mid-cut of FCC gasoline, rich in aromatics, olefins and sulfur, is directed to the GT-BTX PluS™ unit.

• Distillation-Based Extraction: Advanced columns and proprietary solvents efficiently separate BTX as petrochemical product and sulfur species from olefins which will be completely preserved for high-octane gasoline product.

• Product Handling:

  • The BTX-rich extract can be routed to petrochemical production units.

  • The desulfurized, olefin-rich raffinate is directly suitable for gasoline blending or further sweetening.

    
    

Real-World Impact

• Validated Commercial Performance: Plants across the globe have successfully implemented GT-BTX PluS™, reporting reliable compliance with environmental standards, increased product value, and robust operation—even during market or feedstock fluctuations.

• Fits Modern Refinery Strategies: Whether the goal is to maximize gasoline quality, produce more aromatics, or quickly adjust to new regulations, GT-BTX PluS™ offers unmatched operational adaptability.

To learn more about Sulzer GT-BTX PluS and receive more information about this solution, contact us.