Shell confirms new investment at Jurong Island, Singapore

The production capacity for polyols is expected to be 360 kt/y after the upgrade. The project is expected to be completed in 2014. The polyols upgrading will be achieved by optimising existing facilities and deploying a catalyst that improves the on-site conversion of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide to polyols. Shell’s proprietary technology has the added benefits of consuming less energy and process materials, as well as generating less waste, says the company.

“The Asia Pacific market for polyols has grown rapidly over the years and we see increasing demand for higher-comfort products, hence the requirement for a wider polyols offering. The additional volume and grades from this Singapore investment will enable us to meet customer demand growth from key markets in Asia, particularly China,” said Graham van’t Hoff, Executive Vice President for Shell Chemicals.

Chiew Nguang-Yong, General Manager for Shell Jurong Island, explained “Shell has the right asset base on Jurong Island to capture growth opportunities in the region. Customers will clearly benefit from our investment as we can now produce the products they need more sustainably and efficiently.”

This polyols expansion project is the latest investment to strengthen Shell’s Propylene Oxide & Derivatives business globally. In 2008, Shell completed similar works to increase polyols capacity at its Pernis manufacturing site in the Netherlands. In November 2012, Shell and joint venture partner Sabic announced that they are developing a range of polyols and styrene monomer propylene oxide plants at their Sadaf facility in Saudi Arabia.