The unit will use the CATOFIN propane dehydrogenation process from Lummus Technology that employs Süd-Chemie’s latest CATOFIN catalyst to produce 1.65 billion pounds (approximately 750,000 metric tons) per year of polymer grade propylene.

“This project is an example of the rebirth of the U.S. petrochemical industry due to the abundance of propane feedstock attributed to the growth in natural gas liquids as a result of shale gas production,” said Philip K. Asherman, President and CEO. “We are pleased to be able to provide this cost-effective and reliable route to on-purpose propylene to meet the current worldwide shortage.”

Propylene is a building block used to produce a variety of products including polypropylene, a plastic used for household goods.

CB&I