Alkylene oxides are produced by oxidizing the respective olefins (e.g. ethylene, propylene) from the steamcracker. As highly reactive and flammable substances, especially the two main products ethylene- and propylene oxide, these important buildings blocks are largely sold and converted internally. Hence, colleagues from CZ for ethanolamines, EV for detergents and surfactants and CP for the production of glycol ethers are major consumers. In a next step these alkylene oxides are converted into glycols via hydrolysis (i.e. reaction with water). Internally for example the colleagues from EV use mono ethylene glycol (MEG) for the production of the well-known antifreeze agent Glysantin®. Externally MEG is a key component for the lightweight PET-bottles, functional sports wear based on polyester fibers as well as polyester resins. Propylene glycols also cover a wide range of applications. They can be used as solvents, additives for cosmetics, humidifying agent for tobacco or as building blocks for polyurethanes (PUR) used for soles of sport shoes. Alyklene Oxides and Glycols are produced and marketed by our global Business Unit G-CPO. |
