13.08.2019 • NewsElaine BurridgeKBRplant engineering

KBR Adds Isomerization Technologies

KBR Adds Isomerization Technologies (c) KBR
KBR Adds Isomerization Technologies (c) KBR

KBR has acquired isomerization technologies from RRT Global, enabling the US engineering and construction company to offer expanded octane and clean fuel processes. RRT Global is a Russian-based company – and existing partner of KBR - that specializes in developing technologies for oil refining.

The companies have operated an alliance since 2015, offering MAX-ISOM catalytic distillation technology for the isomerization of C5 and C6 n-paraffins to boost gasoline pool octane. The isomerization of C5 and C6 streams improves the octane rating of light straight run naphtha, KBR explained.

The acquisition gives KBR the patented technology and intellectual property rights to offer MAX-ISOM globally as well as isomerization technologies for C4 and C7 streams. Isomerization of C4 streams produces a more desirable feedstock for alkylation units while C7 isomerization can be applied to upgrade low-octane C7 streams to produce isomerate that can be blended directly in the gasoline pool, KBR said.

The contractor added that unlike conventional fixed-bed isomerization technologies, MAX-ISOM can accommodate high benzene content in the feed due to its unique catalytic distillation column design.

Global fuel specifications have been tightening on the sulfur, benzene, olefins and total aromatics content of gasoline. KBR said isomerization offers refiners a higher octane gasoline blend stock that is free from benzene, aromatics, oxygenates and olefins.

Virtual Event

Digitalization in the Chemical Industry
CHEManager Spotlight

Digitalization in the Chemical Industry

Save the Date: October 22, 2025
The event will be promoted to a combined audience of over 100,000 professionals across Europe through the CHEManager and CITplus networks.

Special Issue

Circular Plastics Economy
Explore the Future of Plastics

Circular Plastics Economy

This special CHEManager issue explores the industry’s pivotal shift towards a more sustainable, circular plastics value chain. Readers will find expert analysis and real-world solutions for today’s most pressing recycling and regulatory challenges.

most read

Photo
28.07.2025 • NewsChemistry

VCI Welcomes US-EU Customs Deal

The German Chemical Industry Association (VCI) welcomes the fact that Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and US President Donald Trump have averted the danger of a trade war for the time being.