scientific programmes

In keeping with its philosophy of focussed and directed research as the preferred route to basic science, engineering and technology development, c*change will limit its initial technical scope to four scientific programmes, viz.

The Synthesis Gas Programme - relates to South Africa's international leadership position in "synthetic" chemical processing and the country's domestic coal/gas to chemicals/fuels technology base. It comprises the Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) synthesis, the competitive methanol/DME route as well as other, "direct" syngas and methane conversion routes.

The Olefins Programme - encompasses principally olefins, however, with a strong focus on value addition to odd-numbered carbon chains which are almost unique to the F-T synthesis. Research will focus on high volume commodity products and intermediates.

The Small Volume Chemicals Programme - will explore opportunities aimed at the currently under-developed Fine and Speciality Chemicals market in South Africa. Emphasis will be placed on the development of catalysis for the production of high-value products.

The Paraffin Programme - comprises routes for the activation and conversion of n-paraffins to chemicals and intermediates. The programme lends itself to fundamental, long-term research projects incorporating all of heterogeneous, homogeneous and biocatalytic pathways.

In addition, the Centre will emphasise two broad underlying themes, viz. materials synthesis and characterisation, and molecular modelling.