Taekwang Industrial Set to Restart Propylene Production in Ulsan

Taekwang Industrial, a prominent player in South Korea's petrochemical industry, is gearing up to recommence production at its propane dehydrogenation plant located in Ulsan, South Korea. The planned restart is scheduled for mid-November, following a comprehensive maintenance period that kicked off on October 13. This strategic maintenance endeavor serves as a proactive measure to ensure the efficient and uninterrupted operation of the plant.

It's worth noting that Taekwang Industrial opted for a similar maintenance closure last year, during which the propane dehydrogenation unit in Ulsan was temporarily halted from August 1 to August 25. These periodic maintenance intervals are instrumental in safeguarding the operational reliability and longevity of the facility.

The propane dehydrogenation plant in Ulsan boasts a substantial production capacity, capable of yielding 300,000 metric tons of propylene annually. Propylene, a versatile chemical compound, serves as the primary raw material in the production of polypropylene (PP). The significance of propylene as a fundamental building block for the manufacture of polypropylene underscores its crucial role in various industries, including plastics and packaging.

An analysis of the supply dynamics in the polypropylene market reveals notable trends. According to ScanPlast's review, the supply of polypropylene to the Russian market during the initial eight months of 2023 amounted to 1,034.76 thousand metric tons. This figure, calculated based on the formula encompassing production, import, and export (excluding exports to Belarus and Kazakhstan), marks a substantial increase of 10% compared to the corresponding period in the previous year.

Taekwang Industrial Co., Ltd. is a diversified company engaged in the production of a wide range of petrochemical products, synthetic fibers, and textiles. Its operations span South Korea and extend to international markets. The company's portfolio includes the production of petrochemicals, such as purified terephthalic acid, propylene, acrylonitrile, sodium cyanide, ammonium sulfate, acetonitrile, and hydrogen peroxide. In addition to petrochemicals, Taekwang Industrial is a manufacturer of synthetic fibers, including acrylic fibers, nylon yarns, and spandex. The company's activities encompass the production of acrylics and yarns, as well as a diverse array of fabrics, with a focus on polyester fabrics.

Established in 1950, Taekwang Industrial Co., Ltd. has grown to become a well-established entity in the industry, exemplifying its commitment to excellence and innovation. The company's operations are rooted in Seoul, South Korea, and its influence extends across domestic and international markets.

Propylene, the primary product of the Ulsan plant, serves as a foundational raw material for the production of polypropylene (PP), a versatile material with diverse applications. The supply trends in the polypropylene market indicate a substantial increase in the Russian market's demand, underlining the compound's enduring importance across various sectors.