“We are grateful to be selected and provide multiple technologies and solutions to support Butadiene LLP’s growth and expansion,” said Lummus Technology’s president and CEO Leon de Bruyn. “Lummus’ integrated solutions can help grow the economic position of our customer as they execute this important project for Kazakhstan and its downstream industry.”

The scope of the contract includes the technology license and basic engineering for four process units, with Lummus providing its iC4 Catofin, Catadiene, CDMtbe processes and BASF’s butadiene extraction technology. Lummus has been licensing BASF’s butadiene extraction technology for over 30 years.

Once complete, the units will upgrade a mixed butanes feed to produce 85,000 t/y of isobutylene, 120,000 t/y of butadiene, and 40,000 t/y of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE). These products will feed Butadiene LLP’s new synthetic rubber production facility and supply the local Kazakhstan transportation fuels market.

Butadiene LLP is a joint venture that was set up by KazMunayGas and Russia’s Tatneft in November 2021 to produce a range of butadiene rubbers. Construction on the complex started last November and completion is scheduled for 2025.

Author: Elaine Burridge, Freelance Journalist