Johnson Matthey secures first licensed methanol plant in Russia

Johnson Matthey announced on Wednesday evening that its combined reforming methanol technology has been selected by JSC Technoleasing for the new Amur Oblast facility in Skovorodino, Russia.

The FTSE 100 speciality chemicals giant said it would provide a license for the 3,000 metric tonnes per day (mtpd) plant, and would include its new ‘Advanced Series Loop’ technology to achieve a “significant improvement” in natural gas efficiency.

It said the contract also included the associated engineering, proprietary equipment and catalyst supply.

Pending a final investment decision by Technoleasing, it would be the first Johnson Matthey-licensed methanol plant in Russia using the combined reforming and Advanced Series Loop technology.

“This win demonstrates our unique ability to bring tailored solutions to our customers through our innovative methanol plant flowsheets, in-depth know-how and catalyst technologies,” said managing director John Gordon.

“Our new Advanced Series Loop technology will provide energy efficiency and significant economic benefits in gas consumption per ton of methanol over conventional loops for the Amur facility for many years to come.”