Topsoe's unique position in supplying cutting edge catalysts and technologies is founded on a long-term commitment to research and development, and our effort in catalysis is one of the largest worldwide.

As a result, Topsoe is a world leader in providing new knowledge about many catalysts and catalytic processes.

Integrating research and market experience

At Topsoe, research and development is an integrated part of the company, and the development work is carried out in close collaboration with marketing, production and engineering.

Research activities range from fundamental molecular studies to large-scale process demonstrations. Large efforts are devoted to our existing technologies, and we are continuously engaged in expanding our range of products and services.

World class results in catalysis

A fundamental understanding is key to new developments, and therefore also key to providing the best service and products to our clients. Consequently, a significant part of our research deals with long-term and fundamental research.

This necessitates a continuous development of new core competencies as well as collaboration with a worldwide network of catalysis groups at universities and research institutes.

Understanding - the basis for development

Our approach to understanding catalytic processes is to combine empirical knowledge with fundamental facts of the chemistry taking place at the catalyst. Together with detailed information of the catalyst composition and structure under process conditions, this forms the basis for the development of new and improved catalysts, and is achieved by using state-of-the-art analytical techniques and tools.

Scaling up - predicting industrial performance

The results of the fundamental investigations are used via computer programmes to predict the industrial performance of catalysts and processes.

Thus a large part of the research and development is allocated to pilot plant studies under relevant industrial conditions. Such studies often involve existing and potential customers to ensure that their needs and experience guide the development work.

In the pipeline

Our present focus is on new catalysts and processes for

• large-scale syngas units including gasifiers
• hydrotreating catalysts and other refining technologies to meet new fuels requirements
• environmental solutions for removing sulphur compounds and NOx from gas streams in industrial plants and power plants and from diesel exhaust

As a spin-off from the catalytic expertise, the Topsoe subsidiary Topsoe Fuel Cell, is currently developing and producing solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC).