ExxonMobil starts up 400ktpa elastomers plant in Texas

Spring, Texas – ExxonMobil has started up two new chemical production units as part of a $2 billion (€1.8 billion) expansion project at its production facility in Baytown, Texas.

The project involves a new performance polymers line to produce 400 kilotonnes per annum (ktpa) of elastomers, said ExxonMobil in a statement 19 Sept.

The unit will produce olefinic elastomers Vistamaxx and Exact, which can be used in a wide range of applications in industries, such as automotive, construction, consumer, hygiene and packaging.

As semi-crystalline polymers, with tunable amorphous content, Vistamaxx elastomers can be tailored to enhance elasticity, softness and flexibility as well as cling, sealability, clarity and adhesion properties in polymer materials

The elastomer can also increase the durability of consumer products, such as reusable containers, to extend their useful life while also allowing for higher recycled content.

Exact, according to ExxonMobil, can help meet the growing demand in the car industry for thinner, lighter weight parts to improve fuel efficiency.

In addition to the elastomers plant, the expansion project also includes a new linear alpha olefins unit with the capacity to produce 350ktpa of Elevexx-branded products, marking ExxonMobil’s entry into the market.

“With startup of these two new lines, ExxonMobil is delivering high-value materials for a variety of products that society depends on every day,” said Karen McKee, president of ExxonMobil Product Solutions.

Founded in 1919, ExxonMobil’s Baytown facility is an integrated refining and petrochemical complexes, spanning 3,400 acres along the Houston Ship Channel.