Technical Innovations Behind Sulzer’s Techtiv™ Solvents: A Deep Dive into Performance and Safety

Introduction: Engineering Excellence in Aromatics Extraction Solvents

Sulzer’s Techtiv™ solvent family represents a landmark in solvent technology designed specifically for benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) extraction in refining and petrochemical industries. Backed by decades of research and operational data, Techtiv™ solvents set new benchmarks in selectivity, thermal stability, and safe handling while optimizing refinery performance.

Proprietary Chemical Formulation for Superior Performance

Techtiv™ solvents are uniquely formulated with a nitrogen-free chemical design that minimizes catalyst poisoning a common challenge with traditional sulfolane-based solvents. This advanced chemistry extends catalyst life and reduces operational disruptions.

Moreover, the proprietary blends are tailored to maximize selectivity and solvency, enabling ultra-high BTX recovery (>99.9%) and purity (≥99.9%), even in demanding feedstocks such as catalytic reformate and pyrolysis gasoline. This translates to higher-value product streams and minimizes losses that affect refinery margins.

Thermal and Chemical Stability

One of Techtiv™ solvents’ most prized features is their exceptional thermal and chemical stability. Unlike conventional solvents that degrade rapidly under refinery conditions, Sulzer’s formulation resists breakdown, reducing corrosion risks and the formation of degradation products. This stability:

• Lowers maintenance costs by protecting unit internals

• Improves solvent lifespan, reducing replacement frequency and costs

• Supports safer and more reliable continuous operations

  
  

Compatibility and Safe Handling

Safety is central to Techtiv™ solvent design. The solvent is non-toxic and non-reactive under operational conditions, simplifying handling protocols and reducing exposure risks for plant personnel. Compatibility with existing Liquid-Liquid Extraction (LLE) and Extractive Distillation (ED) units enables drop-in replacement without modification, further enhancing operational flexibility and minimizing capital expenses.

Tailored Solutions Through Advanced R&D and Pilot Testing

Sulzer leverages extensive in-house R&D facilities and global pilot plant operations to customize solvent formulations for each customer’s unique feed, unit design, and performance goals.

This bespoke approach ensures solvents not only meet but exceed expectations regarding throughput, energy efficiency, and purity.

Continuous innovation remains a priority for Sulzer, with ongoing studies exploring bio-based solvents and enhanced process modeling to further improve environmental outcomes and unit optimization.

Conclusion: Sulzer Techtiv™ Solvents – The Industry Gold Standard

Sulzer’s Techtiv™ solvent technology combines cutting-edge chemical engineering, decades of operational experience, and a rigorous commitment to safety to deliver unmatched performance in BTX extraction. Its superior selectivity, stability, and safe handling empower refiners and petrochemical operators to improve aromatic recovery, lower operational costs, and sustain safer, longer-lasting plant operation.

Contact Sulzer today to discover how the advanced Techtiv™ solvent platform can unlock new levels of efficiency, safety, and profitability for your BTX extraction processes.