BeBOP Project: Workshop in Mannheim Highlights Circularity Potentials of Methanol Synthesis

As part of the EU-funded BeBOP project, ECODESIGN company GmbH hosted another Circularity Workshop on May 21, 2025. The event, organized by project partner ICODOS GmbH in Mannheim, focused on the circularity potential and challenges of the innovative methanol synthesis process.

A central point of discussion was the 3D-printed methanol reactor, whose design enables superior heat transfer and high operational flexibility, which in turn increases efficiency and reduces energy consumption. However, these advantages are offset by practical challenges in catalyst management. In particular, the limited lifespan of the catalyst under dynamic operating conditions and the significant downtime of approximately two and a half weeks required for a safe replacement were identified as critical factors.

Further important insights concerned the closing of material cycles. Participants discussed the recyclability of both the catalyst, through the recovery of valuable metals, and the reactor itself, which is made of high-quality metal alloys. In addition, the integration of heat released during synthesis and the reuse of process water were highlighted as crucial levers for increasing the overall efficiency of the system.

The results of this workshop, together with the insights from previous events on gasification and SOEC electrolysis, form an essential basis for the further development and evaluation of a sustainable and circular overall process within the BeBOP project.