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 intermediates for
ethanolamines, performance chemicals 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
performance products 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, as building blocks for polyurethanes (PUR)
used for soles of sport shoes. Alyklene Oxides and Glycols are produced
and marketed by our Business Unit Basic Petrochemicals. |
