Heraeus Precious Metals and Sweden’s Hulteberg have agreed on a strategic partnership to jointly develop and commercialize a variety of catalysts that are required for the operation of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). These are said to represent a promising technology for the electrochemical conversion of hydrogen and fuels into electricity.

In collaboration with Johannes Kepler University Linz, Heraeus Precious Metals has developed and applied for a patent on an industrial precious metal catalyst for efficient lignin conversion. This is described as “highly suitable for the conversion of lignin to phenolic components on an industrial scale”.

Evonik has acquired the Porocel Group, which has developed a technology for the rejuvenation of desulfurisation catalysts in a $210 million deal. This deal is scheduled to close by the end of 2020, subject to regulatory approval.

Executive board chairman Christian Kullmann commented: “This acquisition is the next logical step in the strategic development of our portfolio. Our focus is on stable and high-margin speciality chemicals.”