INEOS Oligomers currently operates an 80 KTPA PolyIsoButene (PIB) plant at its large integrated complex (refinery, chemical cracker and derivatives) located in Lavera, France. Over the past three years, INEOS Oligomers has spent ten million euros in upgrading this PIB unit to enhance its ability to align with customers’ evolving supply needs.
These upgrades include:
- Improved security of feedstock supply - by adding the ability to import raw material from off-site sources and reducing dependency on the co-located steam cracker.
- Increased availability of higher molecular weight grades - through product tank farm improvements that included new in-line filtration technology and the construction of several new tanks.
- More consistent product viscosity – through process design and technology improvements.
- 50% increase in drumming capacity – with the addition of a new drumming line.
INEOS Oligomers is committed to the future of its PIB business, which it markets under the Indopol® and Panalane® brand names on a global basis. It currently sells 20 grades of PIB, either directly or through an extensive distributor network, into markets such as: lube oil, adhesives, sealants, film and other speciality uses.