Abstract
This paper reports on an investigation of LPG cracking in existing naphtha-based ethylene plants. Rigorous simulation of LPG cracking kinetics permitted the calculation of product distribution under various operating conditions. The economic gains expected as a result of substituting parts of the naphtha by LPG were assessed under various levels of substitution. The investigation shows that under favorable price structures of both raw materials and products, switching some naphtha crackers to LPG can be a profitable proposition.