Chemicals
Petrochemicals
Technology Licensing
SYNCRA Oxo-C3

Petrochemicals

SYNCRATM Oxo-C3

Propionaldehyde is gaining importance as a key raw material for several value chains with good growth potential. SYNCRATM Oxo-C3 enables chemical companies to secure reliable and efficient access to this product, benefitting from BASF's outstanding operating experience and technical expertise as the world's largest oxo alcohols producer. 

The SYNCRATM Oxo-C3 process is BASF’s proprietary technology for producing propionaldehyde.

At the core of the process is a hydroformylation reaction (also called oxo reaction), where ethylene reacts with oxo gas (CO and H₂) in the presence of a catalyst. The reaction is carried out under moderate pressure and temperature, yielding an excellent selectivity. The solution is well-scalable and very lean. Licensees benefit from an efficient heat integration concept and a robust catalyst system. 

Proven Technical Excellence

The SYNCRATM Oxo-C3 technology delivers high selectivity, energy efficiency, and competitive investment costs. It is well-scalable to capacities beyond 150 kt/a, making it a robust and economical solution for expanding operations.

Reliability & Safety

BASF has a track record of decades of operational experience and several successful implementations of oxo technologies around the globe. This has proven the excellent reliability of our solutions and shaped their efficient, state-of-the-art safety concept. 

Comprehensive Licensing Package

Licensees benefit from a tailor-made, one-stop-shop solution that includes the inhouse preparation of an engineering package and the continuous support of our experienced oxo technologists and plant operators - all the way from the first discussions to plant start-up.

Strategic Integration with Methacrylics Value Chain

The Oxo-C3 technology is ideally suited for downstream integration into methacrylic acid, building on BASF's complementary offer SYNCRATM MAA, and methacrylates production. It supports ethylene-based routes to these products with significant advantages compared to conventional technologies, enhancing economic and environmental performance.