Lummus Technology offers the reliable Lummus/UOP EBOne ethylbenzene (EB) and "Classic" styrene monomer (SM) technologies.

The fixed-bed, liquid-phase EBOne process uses a zeolite catalyst that provides high yields and high selectivity, practically eliminating xylene formation (an impurity that reduces SM quality downstream). The catalyst provides three to five years of run-length, which minimizes plant downtime and eliminates the need for an on-site regeneration system.

The "Classic" SM process features a deep vacuum EB dehydrogenation reaction system. The low pressure, adiabatic reactors achieve high EB conversion and high selectivity to SM. The process' energy efficiency is demonstrated by: low steam-to-oil ratio; high conversion achieved by the exclusive, high-activity catalyst; and the substantial amount of energy recovered without the need for compression equipment. Lummus' design minimizes maintenance and enhances mechanical reliability – proven by the performance record of plants that achieve annual on-stream factors exceeding 95%.

The Lummus/UOP SMART^TM SM process integrates an oxidative reheat step into a "Classic" SM plant, which allows 30-70% capacity expansion in an existing styrene plant. The inter-stage hydrogen oxidation reaction also provides the heat required for the second stage dehydrogenation reaction. This technology achieves a higher per-pass EB conversion and provides the most cost-effective revamp for higher capacity.