Honeywell Unveils Innovative Naphtha Technology to Enhance Energy Efficiency

On May 8, 2024, Honeywell unveiled a groundbreaking NEP (naphtha to ethane and propane) process, poised to revolutionize light olefin production globally. This innovation promises enhanced efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions per metric ton of olefin produced across various regions.

Ethane and propane serve as optimal feedstocks for the synthesis of ethylene and propylene, essential petrochemicals utilized in the manufacturing of chemicals, plastics, and fibers. This advancement underscores Honeywell's commitment to aligning its portfolio with three significant megatrends, including the energy transition.

The NEP technology produces a customizable quantity of ethane and propane from naphtha and/or LPG feedstocks. In a standard NEP-based olefin production facility, ethane is directed to an ethane steam cracking unit, while propane is routed to a propane dehydrogenation unit. This method yields higher quantities of valuable ethylene and propylene while minimizing the production of less valuable byproducts compared to traditional mixed-feed steam cracking units that process the same feedstock in terms of quantity and composition. This innovative approach leads to a significant increase in Net Cash Margin, ranging from 15 to 50% (Derived from two UOP studies on crude to petrochemical processes (ID#0033, ID#0034), standard UOP simulation models and methodologies were employed to assess the net cash margin (NCM) for two distinct greenfield petrochemical configurations and use cases).

Moreover, a NEP-powered olefins complex reduces CO2 emissions per metric ton of light olefins produced by 5 to 50% compared to a traditional mixed-feed steam cracker. Honeywell's recent technology expansion broadens our array of offerings to address the increasing need for efficient petrochemical solutions.

"The petrochemical industry encounters robust competition and hurdles in sourcing raw materials on a global scale," remarked Matt Spalding, Vice President and General Manager of Honeywell Energy and Sustainability Solutions in MENA. "Our technology facilitates enhanced production efficiency of ethylene and propylene, both high-demand chemicals, while simultaneously aiding our customers in reducing their carbon footprint."

This innovative solution is a component of Honeywell's Integrated Olefin Suite technology portfolio, the first of its kind in the industry. It offers unique offerings aimed at optimizing the production of light olefins.

Honeywell functions as an integrated corporation serving diverse industries and global markets. Its strategic focus centers on three significant megatrends: automation, the future of aviation, and energy transition. These are bolstered by the Honeywell Accelerator operating system and the Honeywell Connected Enterprise integrated software platform. As a trusted ally, Honeywell aids organizations in addressing complex global challenges by providing practical solutions and innovations through its Aerospace Technologies, Industrial Automation, Building Automation, and Energy and Sustainability Solutions business segments. Through these efforts, Honeywell plays a role in advancing global intelligence, security, and environmental sustainability.