Wednesday, May 2, 2007

Production of Propylene Oxide

Chemical formula: C3H6O

In the 1960s, Shell chemicals companies entered the propylene oxide (PO) sector with the acquisition of a PO plant in Carrington, UK. Over the next 40 years, Shell chemicals companies grew into one of the leading players in the PO and derivatives market. The strength of their SM/PO (styrene monomer/ propylene oxide) technology strongly contributed to the attainment of their position.

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Propylene oxide is a colourless, reactive liquid with an ether-like odour. It is used primarily as a building block for the manufacture of a versatile range of derivative products.

Process:

There are a number of known technologies to produce propylene oxide i.e HPPO process. While other processes exist, the Shell chemicals companies have derived a strong competitive advantage by using and continually developing their proprietary SM/PO technology, a process in which propylene (C3) and ethyl benzene (EB) are simultaneously converted into propylene oxide (PO) and styrene monomer (SM), respectively.

Industrial Safety Precautions:
  • Propylene oxide is also flammable and reactive so storage and unloading areas must be specifically designed and monitored.
  • DOW (SMPO technology is also known as the DOW production) offers technical and product stewardship support by way of periodic safe handling and storage reviews, and training.

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