Chemical company LyondellBasell collaborates with Technip Energies and ChevronPhillips on electric steam cracking furnace

LyondellBasell signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Technip Energies and Chevron Phillips Chemical potentially to design, construct and operate a demonstration unit using Technip Energies’ electric steam cracking furnace technology (eFurnace by T.EN). A joint development agreement is expected to be signed later this year.

Steam cracking furnaces play a significant role in the production of basic chemicals by breaking down hydrocarbons into olefins and aromatics. This cracking process requires a temperature of more than 1,500 °F (850 °C).

Technip Energies, a leader in the ethylene market, developed the concept and design for the e.Furnace by T.EN technology, which could achieve this temperature using electricity as the heat source. The use of renewable electricity in this process would contribute t reducing GHG emissions associated with olefins production significantly.

We are taking decisive steps to reduce our absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions, while creating solutions for everyday sustainable living. Deployment of an industrial-scale electric cracking furnace is one option we are considering in this space because of its ability to reduce furnace GHG emissions by up to 90% compared to a conventional furnace.

Construction of the demonstration unit, which would be the first for LyondellBasell, is an essential step in the development of eFurnace technology and a critical pre-condition for potential future construction of a full-scale unit. It will enable the company to test the technology and confirm continuous olefin production is possible using electricity as a heat source.

The LyondellBasell Channelview site offers an optimal environment for the demonstration unit due to its operational excellence, feedstock flexibility and electric grid infrastructure, proximity to the other MOU parties and access to expertise at the company's Houston Technology Center. The three parties plan to assemble a joint development team to support implementation of the project.

Posted on 06 June 2023 in Brief | Permalink | Comments (0)