Honeywell launches NEP technology to reduce CO2 emissions in olefin production

New Delhi: Honeywell announced a new naphtha to ethane and propane (NEP) process designed to improve the efficiency of light olefin production and reduce CO2 emissions per metric ton of olefin produced.

Ethane and propane, essential feedstocks for producing ethylene and propylene, are key petrochemicals used in the production of chemicals, plastics, and fibers. This innovation aligns Honeywell’s portfolio with the energy transition megatrend.

The NEP technology generates a tunable amount of ethane and propane from naphtha and/or LPG feedstocks. In a typical NEP-based olefin production complex, ethane is fed to an ethane steam cracking unit, and propane is fed to a propane dehydrogenation unit.

This method generates more high-value ethylene and propylene with reduced production of lower-value byproducts compared to traditional mixed-feed steam cracking units processing the same quantity and composition of feedstock. This approach results in net cash margin increases from 15 to 50%.

An NEP-based olefins complex also reduces CO2 intensity per metric ton of light olefins produced by 5 to 50% compared to a traditional mixed-feed steam cracker. Honeywell’s latest technology expands its portfolio of offerings to meet the growing demand for efficient petrochemical solutions.

“The petrochemical industry faces strong competition and challenges in obtaining raw materials globally,” said Matt Spalding, vice president and general manager, Honeywell Energy and Sustainability Solutions in MENA. “Our technology helps to enable more efficient production of ethylene and propylene, two chemicals which are in high demand, while also helping our customers lower their carbon emissions.”

This new solution is part of Honeywell’s Integrated Olefin Suite technology portfolio, which aims to enhance the production of light olefins.