Dow and Evonik Initiate Operations of Pilot Plant Converting Hydrogen Peroxide to Propylene Glycol

Dow, a leading producer of propylene glycol worldwide, and Evonik, a global hydrogen peroxide manufacturer, have jointly announced the successful initiation of their innovative hydrogen peroxide to propylene glycol (HPPG) pilot plant at the Evonik facility in Hanau, Germany.

Evonik and Dow develop direct synthesis of propylene glycol

Utilizing the unique HYPROSYN® technique, the plant devised by both Dow and Evonik, facilitates the direct conversion of hydrogen peroxide and propylene into propylene glycol (PG).

New Process Promises Decreased Ecological Impact

The pilot plant aims to showcase the advantages of this ground-breaking technology. Unlike the conventional process that uses propylene to produce propylene oxide (PO), which is then transformed into PG via hydrolysis, the HYPROSYN® process applies an innovative catalytic system to produce PG directly from propylene and hydrogen peroxide. The amalgamation of all crucial reaction stages into a single reactor not only eliminates the requirement for additional investments in PO capacity but also minimizes capital needs. The process significantly diminishes the environmental footprint, for instance, water usage is cut down to less than 5% in comparison to traditional PG processes. Furthermore, existing PG plants can be upgraded with this new technology to reap its benefits.

PG is a fundamental ingredient in a variety of applications as a highly efficient additive, intermediate, or initiator. This includes industrial, food and animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. In the forthcoming years, Dow and Evonik will persistently assess the plant's functioning and capacity to upscale production to cater to the escalating market demand.

Andrew Jones, Dow's global business director for Chlor-Alkali Vinyl & Propylene Oxide, Propylene Glycol, expressed his satisfaction over the operationalization of the plant through this partnership, stating, "At Dow, our belief is rooted in collaborating with our customers and other stakeholders to create, innovate, and address major challenges. This innovative technology, coupled with our adaptable asset and business model, places us in a strong position to satisfy our customers' needs and the increasing market demand."

Michael Träxler, head of Evonik’s Active Oxygens business line, emphasized the importance of sustainability and strategic partnerships in their business model. He said, "Sustainability forms the crux of our business future-proofing. This depends not only on innovative technologies but also on our ability to scale them up and market them. The initiation of this pilot plant in Hanau not only symbolizes a significant technological progression in our efforts to make industries more sustainable but also underscores the importance of cross-company collaboration, like this partnership with Dow, in driving sustainable solutions."