Honeywell's new naphtha technology improves energy efficiency

Honeywell announces the launch of a revolutionary new naphtha to ethane and propane (NEP) process that will enable regions around the world to increase the efficiency of producing light olefins and lower CO2 emissions per ton of olefins produced.

Ethane and propane are ideal feedstocks for the production of ethylene and propylene, important petrochemicals used in the production of chemicals, plastics and fibers. This innovation demonstrates Honeywell's product portfolio alignment with three compelling megatrends, including the energy transition.

NEP technology produces adjustable amounts of ethane and propane from naphtha and/or LPG feedstocks. In a typical NEP-based olefins production complex, ethane will be fed to an ethane steam cracker and propane will be fed to a propane dehydrogenation unit. This approach produces more high-value ethylene and propylene while reducing the production of lower-value by-products compared to a conventional mixed-feed steam cracker that directly processes the same amount and composition of feedstock. This new approach increased net cash margin from 15% to 50%.

NEP-based olefins complexes can also reduce CO2 intensity per ton of light olefins produced by 5% to 50% compared to conventional mixed-feed steam crackers. Honeywell's latest technologies expand product portfolio and help meet growing demand for efficient petrochemical solutions.

"The petrochemical industry faces intense competition and challenges in accessing raw materials globally," said Matt Spalding, vice president and general manager, Energy and Sustainability Solutions, Middle East and North Africa, Honeywell. "Our technology helps produce ethylene and propylene, two chemicals in high demand, more efficiently while also helping our customers reduce their carbon emissions."

This new solution is part of Honeywell's Integrated Olefins Suite technology portfolio, a first in the industry that delivers differentiated products to increase production of light olefins.