Ketjen Corporation has entered into a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with Saudi Aramco Technologies Company (SATC) to co-develop, test and deploy next-generation Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) catalysts and additives.
The collaboration is intended to enhance the performance of Aramco’s refineries and its affiliates by improving product yields, while also working to reduce environmental impact. The partnership brings together Aramco’s long-standing experience in refining catalyst innovation with Ketjen’s established capabilities in FCC catalyst development, manufacturing and technical expertise.
The agreement combines the technical expertise, research strengths and innovation capabilities of both organisations. Through close cooperation, Ketjen and SATC aim to accelerate the development of proprietary FCC catalysts and additives.
Bob Leliveld, Chief Technology Officer, Ketjen said, “With decades of proven expertise in FCC catalyst innovation, Ketjen is proud to collaborate with a global energy leader like Aramco. This collaboration is expected to support the development of next-generation catalyst solutions, aligning with Aramco’s global operational strategies and setting a new standard for efficiency and performance across the industry.”
Faisal Al Otaibi, Director, Aramco’s Research and Development Center said, “By co-developing next-generation catalysts and FCC solutions with Ketjen, we are not only optimising processes but also setting a new benchmark for the industry. This partnership is expected to accelerate our ability to unlock molecular-level efficiency, reduce emissions, and convert raw materials into higher-value products. Our collaboration with Ketjen reflects our ongoing focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.”
These innovations are expected to support refinery efficiency by increasing the output of high-value products such as gasoline and propylene, while helping to lower the environmental footprint of Aramco’s refining operations.
By integrating Aramco’s operational insights with Ketjen’s advanced research and development, the collaboration is expected to deliver tailored solutions that improve performance, optimise resource use and support Aramco’s broader objectives. Both companies aim to drive advancements in efficiency, yield optimisation and environmental sustainability.
Through the initiative, Ketjen and Aramco reaffirm their commitment to advancing the refining sector. The agreement reflects a shared ambition to develop cutting-edge technologies that address evolving industry demands.
