BASF starts up world’s first plant producing 3D-printed catalysts

BASF has started up the world’s first industrial plant producing 3D‑printed catalysts using its proprietary X3D technology at its Ludwigshafen site. The facility scales additive manufacturing of catalysts to industrial volume, aiming to deliver advanced catalyst geometries and reinforce BASF’s leadership in innovative solutions for the chemical industry.

Where do you think 3D‑printed catalyst designs could deliver the biggest impact first—reducing pressure drop, improving heat/mass transfer, or boosting selectivity in specific reactions?