BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions wins 2024 Edison Patent Award
ISELIN, NEW JERSEY, November 21, 2024 — A team of BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions (ECMS) and Heesung Catalysts Corporation (HCC) scientists was recently awarded a 2024 Edison Patent Award by the Research & Development Council of New Jersey for an innovative Three-Way Conversion Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Trap technology for fuel-cut NOx control in gasoline vehicles. The technology treats NOx well under modern engine operating conditions and provides lower tailpipe emissions in comparison with conventional three-way conversion catalysts.
The team consisted of ECMS scientists Xiaolai Zheng and Pat Burk (retired), along with HCC scientists Jinwoo Song and Jun Lee.
“By integrating a NOx trap functionality to a TWC catalyst, the new TWC-NT technology substantially reduces emissions of NOx and other toxic species from the tailpipe,” said Xiaolai Zheng, Principal Scientist for New Automotive Catalyst Technologies at ECMS.
"As a benefit, carmakers can calibrate gasoline-powered passenger vehicles with more frequent fuel cuts for a better fuel economy, which also means lower CO2 emissions during the vehicle operation," said Jinwoo Song, Vice President and Head of RD&A, HCC.
“This technology was well-received by our customers because it filled a critical need in the market,” said Saeed Alerasool, Senior Vice President, Research, Development and Application at ECMS. “We are fortunate to have the best technical minds in the industry working on helping our customers meet ever more strict emissions regulations and achieve high fuel efficiency. This award is a testament to their hard work and dedication to innovating every day and we could not be prouder of the team.”
The Research & Development Council of New Jersey established the Edison Patent Award to honor Thomas Edison’s legacy and to use his name to honor New Jersey inventors and the research organizations that drive innovation and continue to position New Jersey as a global innovation hub. This recognition program is a part of the Council’s mission to collaborate among industry, academia and government to grow and strengthen STEM in education, innovation and the economy.