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401 May-Jun 2026

13 May 2026

Stamicarbon to license urea to DEF plant

Written by Richard Hands

Nextchem, through its nitrogen technology licensing arm Stamicarbon, has been awarded a licensing and process design package contract by AdvanSix for a new urea-to-diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) plant in Hopewell, Virginia.

The project scope includes a 700 st/d nameplate urea melt plant based on NX STAMI™ Urea technology, fully integrated with a DEF production designed to convert 100% of the urea melt into DEF. This configuration represents an innovative application for Stamicarbon, marking the first project in which all urea melt production may be dedicated exclusively to DEF.

The contract is subject to a final investment decision and a notice to proceed, which are expected in the first half of 2027. The award reflects increasing demand for DEF, driven by stricter emission standards, and the continued adoption of advanced after-treatment systems in transportation.

Fabio Fritelli, Managing Director of Nextchem, commented: “This award confirms the strength and versatility of our nitrogen technology portfolio, which is increasingly finding applications beyond traditional fertilizer uses. By leveraging our proprietary NX STAMI™ Urea technology, we are proud to support the development of emission reduction solutions for the mobility sector such as DEF, while further strengthening Nextchem’s presence in North America.”

Richard Hands

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