TPC Expands Di-isobutylene Output

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TPC announced its chemical plant in Houston has increased its capacity to make di-isobutylene, in response to growing demand from refrigerant lubricants.

The company did not disclose the capacity of the di-isobutylene unit at its Houston chemical plant nor the expansion. In an Oct. 1 news release it did say it increased the unit’s capacity by 27 percent since last year through a series of low-cost improvements.

The press release did not provide a price tag for the improvements.

TPC, which is headquartered in Houston, claimed to be the largest di-isobutylene producer in North America and one of the largest in the world. The chemical is used in number of applications, including phenolic resins for tire manufacturing and as antioxidants for plastics, but officials said the increase in demand is coming mostly from the refrigerant industry.

Di-isobutylenes are being used to help replace hydrofluorocarbons in refrigeration lubricants. Industry turned to HFCs beginning in the late 1980s as a replacement for chlorofluorocarbons after the latter were identified as a risk to earth’s ozone layer. In 1987 the United Nations adopted the Montreal Protocol, which committed nations to phase out the use of CFCs.

HFCs did not deplete the ozone layer but were subsequently found to contribute significantly to global warming. As a result, the UN in 2016 adopted the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, vowing to replace HFCs in refrigerants.

A number of chemistries are being used to replace HFCs, including hydrofluoroolefins, ammonia and carbon dioxide. Some sources predict HFOs will become the most popular alternative in the long term.

“TPC has recognized the need for greater DIB supply and is focused on making it available when it is needed, while maintaining our commitment to operate in an environmental sound and safe manner that is protective of employees and the community,” TPC Vice President for Specialty Products Randall Redd said in the news release.