Lummus Technology and Citroniq Chemicals Team Up to Build Green Polypropylene Plants

In the state of Texas, a significant development has unfolded as Lummus Technology and Citroniq Chemicals recently disclosed the finalization of licensing and engineering agreements for the establishment of green polypropylene plants within the United States. This collaborative venture marks a pivotal step towards sustainable industrial practices and eco-conscious manufacturing.

The inaugural plant, slated for completion in 2027, holds the promise of being a trailblazer in North America, boasting the capacity to yield 400,000 metric tons per annum (kta) of bio-polypropylene. This groundbreaking initiative not only underscores the commitment of both companies to environmental responsibility but also positions the forthcoming facility as a pioneering entity in the region with its unique production capabilities.

This strategic collaboration took root in April 2023 when Lummus Technology and Citroniq Chemicals forged a partnership dedicated to the development of four green polypropylene plants across North America.

The utilization of ethanol to ethylene technology forms an integral part of the Verdene suite, serving as a key precursor in the production chain. This process involves the conversion of ethanol, a bio-based feedstock, into ethylene, a fundamental building block in the manufacturing of polypropylene. By harnessing the potential of bio-based inputs, Lummus Technology and Citroniq Chemicals underscore their commitment to sustainable practices, aiming to reduce the reliance on traditional, non-renewable resources.

Dimer technology, another component of the Verdene suite, contributes to the green polypropylene production process. This innovative technology facilitates the transformation of olefins, specifically ethylene, into dimer acids. These dimer acids serve as crucial intermediaries, playing a pivotal role in the subsequent synthesis of bio-polypropylene. The incorporation of dimer technology exemplifies the commitment of the collaboration to a holistic and environmentally conscious approach to polypropylene production.

Olefins conversion technology, the third element in the suite, represents a key stage in the journey towards green polypropylene. This technology is instrumental in converting olefins, derived from bio-based sources, into essential chemical compounds required for the synthesis of polypropylene. Through this innovative process, Lummus Technology and Citroniq Chemicals further affirm their dedication to sustainable practices and the development of a circular economy.

The concluding component of the Verdene suite is polypropylene technology, the linchpin in the creation of green polypropylene. This technology ensures the efficient and environmentally responsible transformation of the synthesized chemical intermediaries into the final product – bio-polypropylene. By encompassing the entire production cycle, from bio-based feedstock to the end product, Lummus Technology and Citroniq Chemicals demonstrate a holistic and forward-thinking approach to green polypropylene manufacturing.

The strategic significance of these licensing and engineering agreements lies not only in the establishment of a singular green polypropylene plant but in the broader context of a planned series of four such facilities. This underscores the long-term commitment of Lummus Technology and Citroniq Chemicals to advancing sustainable technologies and contributing to the paradigm shift towards greener industrial practices.