STARS (Super Type II Active Reaction Sites) is a breakthrough technology developed in 1998.　It was the first commercially-available hydroprocessing catalyst technology capable of delivering 100% Type II active sites to activity-challenged reactors throughout the world. As a testament to its sustained success, STARS was awarded the 2014 Technology Award from the Catalyst Manufacturers Association of Japan on June 6th.

KetjenfineTM 757 and 848, the first catalysts in the STARS portfolio, were launched at a key time in the history of modern-day oil refining, just before the introduction of clean fuels regulations in Japan, Europe and North America. The step change in desulfurization performance offered by STARS Ketjenfine 757 and 848 substantially reduced capital expenditures for refiners and increased revenues from early adoption incentives for clean fuels. The technology was truly a game changer for hydroprocessing and built an impressive track record of utilization at oil refineries. Since the technology platform was initially developed, many other STARS catalysts have been commercialized and are used extensively throughout the global refining industry. Today approximately 30% of the global diesel production is being touched by STARS catalysts.

The widespread global utilization and impressive track record of this highly-innovative platform is what led to this prestigious award.

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