Clariant has been selected as a key catalyst supplier for the Ecoplanta plant, Repsol and Enerkem’s pioneering project in Tarragona, which seeks to transform municipal solid waste into renewable methanol. This initiative marks a breakthrough in the use of non-recyclable waste as a source for sustainable fuels. sustainable fuels and chemical feedstocks. and chemical feedstocks.
Gasification technology for structural change
The plant will use gasification technology technology, recognized for its efficiency in converting municipal waste into synthesis gas. This gas will be purified with Clariant catalysts, designed to remove impurities such as metals and sulfur compounds, and then transformed into methanol using the MegaMaxā¢. These catalysts stand out for their high activity and selectivity, key factors for maximizing yield and reducing operating costs.
Large scale renewable methanol production
Ecoplanta will have the capacity to process 400,000 tons of non-recyclable solid waste per year, generating 240,000 tons of methanol. This production will prevent the emission of approximately 3.4 million tons of COā during the first ten years, contributing significantly to the reduction of greenhouse gases in sectors that are difficult to decarbonize such as aviation, shipping and the chemical industry.
Thanks to this collaboration, a viable model for the production of renewable methanol from municipal waste is established, combining Clariant’s expertise in catalytic technologies with innovation in gasification and Repsol’s operational capacity. The plant, scheduled for start-up in 2029, positions Spain as a European benchmark in circular energy solutions.
Source and photo: Clariant
