Iranian researchers have succeeded in manufacturing 25 catalysts, including the catalyst used in the production of Euro-4 gasoline.
The catalyst utilized for producing Euro-4 gasoline was monopolized by several European and American companies. Iranian experts, however, successfully produced 25 catalysts, Shana reported.
A production line to produce precious metal catalysts, which are used in petrochemical industry, has gone into operation with private investment. The companies are able to produce catalysts needed for Euro-5 and Euro-6 gasoline if there is ample demand.
"Iran has now become the world's second top producer of these complicated and sensitive catalysts," Abbas Kazemi, managing director of the National Iranian Oil Refining and Distribution Company, said during his visit to the production unit on Monday. Prior to reaching self-sufficiency in manufacturing these catalysts, Iran used to import the catalysts from the sole western producers.
Sanctions imposed by the West on Iran over its nuclear energy program have resulted in a shortage of catalysts needed for gasoline production. Subsequently, producing companies suspended sales of the catalyst to Iranian refineries pursuant to the imposition of sanctions.
"Iranian producers can compete with major western companies once sanctions are lifted," Abbas Sheri-Moqaddam, deputy oil minister for petrochemicals, said during his visit. "Supporting Iranian companies will continue after the lifting of sanctions."
After marathon talks in Lausanne, Switzerland, Iran and P5+1 (Britain, China, France, Russia, the US plus Germany) reached a framework agreement on April 2 that calls for lifting all trade sanctions against Iran. The details of the agreement are to be finalized by Monday.
