German chemical company BASF has collaborated with the Petroleum Institute (PI) of Abu Dhabi to develop new processes for removing aggressive sulfur compounds from acid gases.

Under the deal, the research activities of BASF and PI will focus on methods that show a favourable energy balance, said a senior official.

Another research target will be on exploring the use of adsorbents to develop methods with low energy consumption. Adsorbents are usually porous substances that are insoluble in water. Their large surface area enables them to bond with other molecules through physical forces.

Dr Jens Rudolph, who is responsible for the Middle East region in the Oase gas treatment team of BASF, said: “We look forward to this collaboration because the PI is contributing its expertise in the research, development and production of membranes and adsorbents to the research cooperation.”

The cooperation of BASF and PI was initiated under the guidance of Dr Cornelis Peters, professor at the Chemical Engineering Department in the PI.

Professor Dr Ahmed Abdalla, Department deputy chair and associate professor, PI, said: “With decades of practical experience in many areas of gas treatment and its focus on innovation, BASF is a much appreciated research partner for us.”

“Both BASF and PI complement each other’s capabilities in developing efficient and economical gas treatment processes,” said Professor Dr Vikas Mittal, associate professor at PI’s Chemical Engineering Department. - TradeArabia News Service