Shell considers linear alpha olefin expansion in US

13 February 2013 17:16  [Source: ICIS news]

HOUSTON (ICIS)--Shell Chemical announced on Wednesday it is considering the addition of a fourth world-scale linear alpha olefin unit at its Geismar, Louisiana, petrochemical facility.

The unit, which would complement three existing linear alpha olefin units at the Geismar facility, is intended to help meet growing global demand for products such as polyethylene (PE) co-monomers, lubricants and lubricant additives, surfactants and offshore drilling fluids, the company said.

Common end-uses for linear alpha olefins include household plastics, laundry detergents, motor oils and drilling fluids. The new production would be targeted for both US and global consumption.

"Shell is positioning itself new for a strong chemicals future that will help us meet the needs of our customers, particularly in North America and Asia," said Rutger Beelaerts, general manager of higher olefins, alcohols and ethoxylates for Shell.

The proposed unit would take ethylene feedstock from other Shell Gulf coast facilities, the company said. Shell owns and operates four petrochemical crackers in the US at Deer Park, Texas, and Norco, Louisiana.

By: Michelle Klump
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