KBR Inc. develops new propane dehydrogenation technology

KBR Inc. developed a new propane dehydrogenation (PDH) technology (K-PROTM) that offers high propylene selectivity and conversion, the company announced.

PDH is a process by which propane is converted to propylene, a valuable component of plastics manufacturing.

The technology is based on KBR’s catalytic olefins technology (K-COTTM), which is a commercially proven fluidized-bed technology for converting low-value olefinic, paraffinic or mixed streams into high-value propylene and ethylene.

K-PROTM delivers significant capital cost and operating cost advantages when compared with conventional designs, the company says. This arises from its fluidized-bed design, which delivers reliable operation and high on-stream factors when compared with fixed or moving bed reactors.

K-PROTM technology combines K-COTTM with a novel high selectivity, low-cost, dehydrogenation catalyst that does not require precious metals. Plants based on this new technology will be designed as stand-alone propylene production units independent of a steam cracker or a FCC unit. Additionally, existing PDH operating units can be modified to use the technology.

“K-PROTM is a further evolution and extension of KBR’s pioneering work in catalytic cracking process technology,” says John Derbyshire, KBR president of the technology business unit. “The CAPEX savings for K-PROTM over other commercially available technologies is in the range of 20 to 30 percent based on our internal studies. In addition, the FCC-based design will deliver higher on-stream factors and much better energy efficiency when compared with existing designs. Our clients have every reason to be excited about this newest addition to our olefins technology portfolio.”

KBR is a Houston-based global provider of differentiated professional services and technologies across the asset and program lifecycle within the government services and hydrocarbon sectors.