Evonik and Dow announce launch of new hydrogen peroxide to propylene glycol (HPPG) process pilot plant

● The HYPROSYN® process enables the direct synthesis of propylene glycol from hydrogen peroxide and propylene without the need for intermediate steps

● Innovative technologies provide flexibility, reduce costs and reduce environmental footprint

● Meet the growing market demand for propylene glycol in a sustainable manner through strategic cooperation

Evonik Industries and Dow Corporation jointly announced that the “Hydrogen Peroxide to Propylene Glycol” (HPPG) innovative process pilot plant jointly developed by both parties has been successfully launched and put into operation at Evonik’s Hanau base in Germany. The plant uses the unique HYPROSYN® process, which enables the direct synthesis of propylene glycol from hydrogen peroxide and propylene. Evonik is the world’s leading producer of hydrogen peroxide, while Dow is the world’s largest producer of propylene glycol.

Andrew, Global Business Director, Dow Chlor-Alkali, Vinyls, Propylene Oxide and Propylene Glycol
Jones said: “At Dow, we work closely with our customers and partners to find solutions to big challenges through innovation. I am excited to see this pilot plant operational. With this innovative technology and flexible business model, we will better meet customer needs and serve the growing market.”

Michael, Head of Evonik’s Active Oxide Business Line
Träxler said: “Sustainable development is at the core of the future development of Evonik’s active oxides business. It is not only about developing innovative technologies, but also having the ability to scale up and commercialize processes. Building excellent strategic partnerships plays an important role in this. . The launch of the Hanau pilot plant is not only an important technical milestone for us to promote the sustainable development of the industry, but also demonstrates the importance of establishing cooperative relationships with companies, including Dow, to develop sustainable solutions.”

This pilot plant demonstrates the advantages of the HYPROSYN® process. Compared with traditional synthesis of propylene oxide first,
The process of rehydrolysis to produce propylene glycol is different. This process directly uses propylene and hydrogen peroxide as raw materials, and synthesizes propylene glycol through a new catalyst, which simplifies the process route and reduces capital investment. Compared with traditional processes, this process also reduces water consumption by more than 95%. In addition, the existing propylene glycol production line can be upgraded and transformed.
Apply this new technology.

Propylene glycol is an important additive, intermediate or initiator widely used in industry, food and animal feed, pharmaceutical and cosmetic production processes. In the next few years,
Evonik and Dow teams will continue to evaluate the plant’s operations and ability to expand production to meet growing market demand.