TPC boosts di-isobutylene production amid rising global demand
Photo courtesy of TPC

TPC boosts di-isobutylene production amid rising global demand

TPC Group, a Houston, Texas, U.S.A.-based petrochemical firm, has successfully wrapped up the first phase of its di-isobutylene (DIB) capacity enhancement. This move aims to cater to the surging global demand for DIB, spurred by the shift towards refrigerants with a lower global warming potential. These advanced refrigerants, mandated by the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol of the United Nations, could potentially slash carbon dioxide emissions by up to 105 billion tonnes once fully embraced. DIB plays a pivotal role as a raw material in crafting components for lubricants used in these state-of-the-art cooling systems.

In 2021, TPC Group marshaled a multifaceted team to pinpoint efficiency enhancements and infrastructural upgrades to amplify DIB processing capacity. This chemical is produced at TPC Group’s integrated facility in Houston. 

The team’s endeavors have already borne fruit, with a recorded 17% annual production surge, achieved through engineering and operational tweaks. More enhancements are on the horizon for the upcoming years.

Randall Redd, vice president of performance products at TPC Group, remarked, “Our commitment is unwavering when it comes to meeting our customers’ needs. Our innovative approach to ramping up volume underscores our adaptability and our collaborative spirit. We’re not just increasing production; we’re also exploring ways to bolster our customers’ sustainability initiatives. As a leading DIB provider in North America, we’ll continue to prioritize delivering this crucial product.”

Di-isobutylene is used as an intermediate in the production of various chemicals. It can be used in the synthesis of antioxidants, lubricant additives, and other specialty chemicals. It’s also a precursor to some plasticizers and can be used in the production of high-octane gasoline blending components.

Apart from its role in next-generation refrigerants, DIB finds applications in tire manufacturing, personal care products and adhesives, among others.