US CP Chem mulling 1-hexene expansion

HOUSTON (ICIS)–Chevron Phillips Chemical (CP Chem) is considering building another on-purpose 1-hexene unit, which would expand its normal alpha olefins (NAO) production, the US-based producer announced on Wednesday.

Chevron Phillips Chemical produces normal alpha olefins (NAO) and on-purpose 1-hexene at its Cedar Bayou site in Texas, US.

CP Chem operates two, full-range NAO plants. In 2014, it started up a 250,000 tonne/year on-purpose 1-hexene plant at its Cedar Bayou site in Baytown, Texas.

“As global demand for polyethylene [PE] continues to grow, this study demonstrates Chevron Phillips Chemical’s commitment to expand with customer demand and remain a leading supplier of 1-hexene,” said Dave Morgan, senior vice president of polymers and specialties.

The new unit would produce comonomer grade 1-hexene from ethylene.

1-hexene is used to produce high-strength PE. NAO is used to produce PE, plasticizers, synthetic motor oils, lubricants, automotive additives, surfactants, paper and multiple other specialty products.

Financial details of the project were not disclosed.

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