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Students and the Catalysis research group strengthen their training with a techni...

Students and the Catalysis research group strengthen their training with a technical visit to a company in the chemical sector

29 April, 2026

Members of the Catalysis research group and research seedbed carried out a technical visit to the company Química Básica Colombiana, in Caloto (Cauca), with the purpose of linking academic training with industrial processes, learning about the application of catalysis at a production scale, and strengthening interest in applied research and technological innovation.

With the aim of strengthening academic training and bridging the gap between theory and industrial practice, the Catalysis research group and research seedbed of the University carried out a technical visit to the company Química Básica, located in the municipality of Caloto, Cauca.

During the visit, students and members of the research seedbed learned first-hand about industrial processes in which catalysis plays a fundamental role, allowing them to understand its importance in optimizing chemical reactions at an industrial scale, improving the efficiency of production processes, and reducing environmental impact.

Química Básica Colombiana has an industrial trajectory dating back to 1977, the year in which the project to install a sulfuric acid plant aimed at supplying the southwestern Colombian market began. The municipality of Caloto was selected for its strategic location, given its proximity to the main consumers and to the Indigenous Mining Company of Cauca S.A., supplier of sulfur, an essential raw material for the production process. The construction phase began in 1980, and in January 1982, the plant started operations with an installed capacity of 75 metric tons per day (MTD), which increased to 90 MTD in 1986. Currently, the company is advancing a project to expand its production capacity to 120 MTD.

One of the most notable aspects of the visit was the detailed explanation of the process for obtaining sulfuric acid from sulfur, one of the most relevant products in the chemical industry. In this context, the role of catalysts was highlighted as key elements in accelerating chemical reactions and ensuring the quality of the final product.

For his part, Dr. Johnny Gutiérrez, head of the Department of Chemistry, stated that “this visit allows students to directly observe the chemical processes they study theoretically in the classroom, while enriching their academic training and raising their awareness of the realities of industrial environments.” Likewise, Professor Alfonso Ramírez affirmed that “this experience fosters interest in applied research, innovation, and technological development in the field of catalysis.”

The participation of the University of Cauca, through its programs to strengthen research seedbeds, reaffirms its commitment to responsible research connected to its environment, generating potential and opportunities, and integrating environmental sustainability into academic, administrative, and research processes. This commitment is reflected in the strengthening of the formative and research activities of the academic community, contributing to the sustainable development of the region and the country.