DuPont Clean Technologies (DuPont) announces the successful startup and performance test of a 300 KMTA STRATCO alkylation unit licensed by DuPont at the Hengli Petrochemical Company (Hengli) new refinery complex, Changxing Island Harbor Industrial Zone, China. The new alkylation unit reportedly enables Hengli to produce high-quality alkylate, a key component for cleaner, high octane gasoline, from a 100% isobutylene feed stream. The unit was developed through DuPont research into the best ways to maximize product octane and minimize end point with this feedstock. Hengli awarded DuPont the contract for the new alkylation unit as well as a MECS Sulfuric Acid Regeneration unit in 2015.
The alkylation unit uses the patented XP2 technology by DuPont in the STRATCO Contactor reactor. The reactor enhancement is designed to improve the acid/hydrocarbon emulsion flow path near the tube bundle heat transfer area of the reactor in order to realize significant process benefits and achieve optimal alkylate product quality, according to DuPont.
The STRATCO Alkylation Technology is a sulfuric acid, catalyzed process that converts low-value, straight-chain olefins into high-value, branched components called alkylate. Alkylate, with its superior blending properties, is a key component for clean gasoline and the STRATCO Alkylation Technology helps refiners safely produce cleaner-burning gasoline with high octane, low RVP, low sulfur, zero aromatics and zero olefins, according to DuPont. STRATCO alkylation technology is licensed and marketed by DuPont as part of its Clean Technologies portfolio in Overland Park, Kansas.
For more information, visit: www.cleantechnologies.dupont.com