INEOS Chooses SK E&C for Propane Dehydrogenation Unit

Investment and Project Overview

INEOS has announced the next step in the design and construction of its state-of-the-art propane dehydrogenation (PDH) unit, part of a €3bn investment at its Antwerp site in Belgium. The 750ktpa plant is expected to be operational by 2023.

Engineering Contract Awarded

SK E&C, Korea, has been awarded the Front End Engineering & Design contract for the PDH plant. The selection was based on a thorough assessment of the project's needs and the expertise of companies capable of designing reliable and efficient PDH units.

Contract Signing

The contract signing took place at the INEOS Headquarters in London, attended by key figures from both INEOS and SK E&C, including Gerd Franken, John McNally, Ahn Jae-hyun, and Kim Chul-Jin.

Environmental and Industrial Impact

The plant aims to be highly energy and carbon efficient, contributing to a competitive and sustainable industry in Europe. The PDH process produces propylene by removing hydrogen from propane gas. Propylene is used in various applications, including polypropylene for automotive components, acrylonitrile for carbon fiber, and propylene oxide for insulation foams.

Future Prospects

The efficient production of hydrogen as a by-product is also becoming increasingly important for future zero-carbon fuel and energy systems for transportation.