Chemicals
Petrochemicals
Technology Licensing
SYNCRA Oxo-C4

Petrochemicals

SYNCRATM Oxo-C4

Oxo-C4 chemicals - butyraldehydes, butanols and 2-ethylhexanol - are the precursors for various acrylates, solvents and plasticizers value chains. SYNCRATM Oxo-C4 is the process that the world's largest oxo chemicals producer builds on. It enables the efficient and reliable supply of these key chemicals and supports licensees in meeting the rising demand in infrastructure, construction, automotive, and consumer goods sectors. 

In the Oxo-C4 process, propylene and oxo gas are converted into butyraldehydes using a rhodium-based catalyst system. n-butyraldehydes and iso-butyraldehydes are separated and can subsequently be hydrogenated to produce n-Butanol and iso-butanol, respectively. Alternatively, the aldol condensation of n-butyraldehyde with subsequent hydrogenation yields 2-ethylhexanol (2-EH). The technology is modular, the ratio between n-butanol and 2-EH being fully flexible, depending on the needs of the licensee.

With optimized heat integration, liquid recycle loops, and gas recovery systems, the Oxo-C4 process ensures high efficiency, low energy consumption, and scalable throughput.

Outstanding Operating Experience

The SYNCRATM Oxo-C4 technology is the result of 100+ years of operating experience of the world's largest oxo chemicals producer with an asset footprint in all major chemical markets. Licensees gain from an optimized heat integration and safety concept and a high raw material conversion rate, resulting in a favorable economic and environmental performance. 

Flexible Product Configuration

The Oxo-C4 process allows licensees to decide on their output ratio between n-butanol and 2-ethylhexanol—or to produce only one of the two—depending on market demands or downstream requirements. This flexibility supports dynamic portfolio management and maximizes asset utilization. Licensees with significant demand for iso-butyraldehyde and/or iso-butanol benefit from a good selectivity towards these molecules. 

Comprehensive Solution

The licensing offer is complemented with extensive support by technology and plant operating experts, inhouse engineering expertise and the supply of BASF's proprietary hydrogenation catalyst solutions. This ensures that the project can smoothly develop without a large number of different interfaces. 

Strategic Fit for Growth Markets

SYNCRATM Oxo-C4 is particularly suited for petrochemical sites with access to propylene via steam cracker, PDH, MTO, or FCC units. It enables the participation in growing markets for plasticizers, coatings, and solvents—especially in regions like Asia and the Middle East where demand is accelerating.