BASF’s Catalyzed SCR Filter invention wins 2011 Thomas Alva Edison Patent Award  

The Research and Development Council of New Jersey, USA, has awarded a team of BASF catalyst inventors with the prestigious 2011 Thomas Alva Edison Patent Award for outstanding environmental contributions. The award was presented at a ceremony held last evening at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, New Jersey. The BASF inventors honored at the ceremony include Joseph A. Patchett, Joseph C. Dettling and Elizabeth A. Przybylski.

This team’s invention is an emission treatment system that can remove harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter from diesel engine exhaust using just one system component. This solution saves space while also reducing weight and backpressure, which can lower carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions compared to existing systems that require two separate components. A technology based on this patent is scheduled for commercial production by year-end 2011.

“It is an honor for BASF and our inventors to receive this award and be recognized for this important innovation,” said Dr. Friedbert Nees, Senior Vice President, Catalysis Research at BASF. “As the global leader in catalysis, BASF has unsurpassed expertise in developing innovative emission control technologies for a wide range of applications that enable cleaner air for a healthier, more sustainable future.”

Governments around the world are tightening emission limits of NOx and particulate matter from diesel engines. For example, between 2007 and 2010 the United States phased-in the Highway Diesel Rule, which the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates will reduce 2.6 million tons of smog-causing nitrogen oxide emissions and 110,000 tons of particulate matter emissions each year. BASF’s innovative SCR Filter system directly supports this environmental protection target.

As emission regulations begin to take effect for non-road vehicles and equipment, finding the space to add emission control catalysts can also be quite challenging. Space is often very limited and there are engineering restrictions in place to ensure adequate line of sight for the vehicle or equipment operator. Combining two emissions control devices in one component saves space and can make it easier to meet these challenges.

Headquartered in New Jersey, BASF’s Catalysis R&D organization employs more than 650 catalysis experts around the world to develop technology solutions for mobile emissions catalysts, refinery catalysts, and chemical and polymerization catalysts.

The Research and Development Council of New Jersey is a nonprofit organization that supports the advancement of research and development activities throughout New Jersey. The Council's membership includes representatives from academia, government and industry.