Technology

The OMEGA Process ("Only MEG Advantage") is a Process by Shell Global Solutions that is used to produce Ethylene Glycol from Ethylene. This process comprises two steps, the controlled Oxidation of Ethylene to Ethylene Oxide (EO), and the net Hydrolysis of Ethylene Oxide to Monoethylene Glycol (MEG). The first Chemical Plant using the OMEGA Process was started in South Korea. Subsequent OMEGA plants have been started in Saudi Arabia and Singapore. Shell claims that this Process, compared to conventional ones, does not produce Higher Glycols, uses less Steam and Water, and generates less Waste. This Process typically yields about 90–92% Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) and 8–10% heavier Glycol Products, mainly Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Triethylene Glycol (TEG).