Reduction of CO2 Emission in Ethylene Oxide Process by Ethylene Recovery from Purge Gas

Abstract: Ethylene oxide is important petrochemical used for the production of Ethylene Glycol. Manufacturing of Ethylene Oxide emits carbon dioxide due to its side reaction. Carbon di oxide emission is major concern globally. Out of total emission, 36% emission is attributable to manufacturing industries including chemical industry. Energy conservation practices will reduce CO2 emission caused by energy use. For reduction from non-energy use, selection of alternative technology, improvement in catalyst selectivity, waste heat recovery plays very important role. In the present paper an attempt has been made to recovery of ethylene from purge gas is studied which otherwise will convert into carbon dioxide. Membrane separation is used to recover ethylene gas from purge gas. Recovered ethylene can be used again in the process for the production of ethylene oxide. This recovery will be helpful to reduce carbon footprint of Ethylene Oxide process.

Keywords: Ethylene oxide, Carbon dioxide, membrane separation, ethylene, purge gas