Sinopec commissions ionikylation unit to produce high octane alkylate
Sinopec Anqing Company, a subsidiary of the Sinopec Group, has successfully commissioned a 300,000 tpy (7,400 bpd) ionikylation unit for the production of high octane alkylate to meet National VI gasoline quality upgrade requirements. The Anqing alkylation unit is the third ionikylation unit in Sinopec’s portfolio and the sixth commercial project using the technology in China. In 2019 and 2020, Sinopec commissioned similar capacity ionikylation units at its Jiujiang and Wuhan refineries, respectively, with the latter installation being a revamp from an HF alkylation unit.
“We are very pleased with the smooth and successful start-up of this new alkylation unit,” said Qingsong Qian, Deputy General Manager of Sinopec Anqing Refinery. “Implementing leading-edge, safe, and environmentally friendly technology is in accordance to Sinopec’s ESG mandates.”
Ionikylation is the leading ionic liquids-based alkylation technology for the production of high octane alkylate that is free from sulfur, benzene, olefins and aromatics. The inherently safe and sustainable process allows a refiner to transition away from using hazardous and corrosive acid catalysts and additives such as HF, H2SO4 and HCl. All ionikylation process equipment is manufactured using carbon steel and the process eliminates the need for costly containment systems for handling hazardous chemicals. Well Resources Inc. is the global licensor of ionikylation.
“As the world moves towards an increasingly sustainable and decarbonized economy, the use of clean-burning transportation fuels will only become more pronounced,” said Warren Chung, President of Well Resources Inc. “Ionikylation will be used to meet evolving fuel standards while allowing operators to ensure that their staff and nearby communities are afforded the highest levels of safety.”
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