Shell Chemicals is looking at building a world-scale linear alpha olefins unit at its petrochemical complex in Geismar, La., U.S.A.
Currently, Shell produces 92,000 tonnes per year of linear alpha olefins in the complex.
The new project will take advantage of cheap ethane resulting from shale gas production. It will also enhance Shell Chemicals’ ability to respond to demand for linear alpha olefins from producers of high technology lubricants and additives, polyethylene copolymers, surfactants and offshore drilling fluids.
Shell has already announced other projects designed to take advantage of the North America’s shale gas revolution.
The group is planning to build its fifth cracker in the United States in the state of Pennsylvania. (February 25, 2013)