Ketjen Corporation and Saudi Aramco Technologies Company (SATC), a subsidiary of Aramco, have entered into a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to co-develop, test, and deploy next-generation Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) catalysts and additives.
The collaboration is designed to strengthen the performance of Aramco’s global refining network by optimizing product yields and reducing environmental impact.
By integrating Ketjen’s advanced catalyst innovation capabilities with SATC’s deep research expertise and operational insights, the partnership seeks to accelerate the development of proprietary FCC technologies aligned with evolving industry requirements.
FCC catalysts play a critical role in refining by enabling the conversion of heavy hydrocarbons into higher-value products such as gasoline and propylene.
The companies said that the new generation of catalysts is expected to improve yield efficiency while supporting lower emissions, aligning with broader industry efforts to enhance sustainability without compromising output.
The agreement brings together complementary strengths, with Ketjen contributing its technical depth in catalyst design and manufacturing, and SATC leveraging decades of research and innovation within Saudi Aramco.
The partnership will focus on developing precision-engineered solutions that optimize resource utilization and deliver measurable improvements in refinery performance.
Bob Leliveld, Chief Technology Officer at Ketjen, “Our collaboration with Aramco is expected to support the development of next-generation solutions that set new benchmarks for efficiency and performance across the refining industry.”
Dr. Faisal Al-Otaibi Director, Research & Development Center Aramco
“By co-developing next-generation catalysts and FCC solutions with Ketjen, we are not only optimizing 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.”
The JDA underscores a broader industry push toward innovation-driven refining, where technology plays a central role in balancing operational efficiency with environmental responsibility.
