INEOS to Expand Hull Plant with Multi-Million Pound Investment
- INEOS Oxide will expand Hull plant to increase Ethyl Acetate production by 100,000 tonnes per year.
- Additional capacity expected by end of next year.
- Hull plant to use ethylene from imported US shale gas.
- INEOS Oxide has production facilities in Belgium, Germany, UK, France, and US.
Expansion Details
INEOS Oxide is set to expand its Hull manufacturing facility, increasing Ethyl Acetate (EtAc) production by 100,000 tonnes annually. The additional capacity is expected to be operational by the end of next year.
Market Demand
EtAc is in high demand for use in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, inks, and flexible packaging. The Hull plant is currently at full capacity, and this investment will help meet the growing needs of customers across Europe.
Post-Brexit Investment
This marks the first major UK investment decision by INEOS following the Brexit vote, reflecting confidence in the UK economy and its manufacturing capabilities.
Raw Material Supply
The Hull site will benefit from INEOS’ $1 billion initiative to import US shale gas to Scotland. A pipeline will link the Grangemouth petrochemicals plant with Hull, allowing the use of ethylene from imported US shale gas as the main raw material.
Project Efficiency
The Hull plant was originally designed for expansion, ensuring the project can be completed quickly and cost-effectively. The site also offers easy logistical access to Europe and global markets, facilitating both the import of raw materials and the export of EtAc.