Technology Unit

Bulk polymerization employs Jacketed Tubular Loop Reactors completely filled with Liquid Propylene to produce Homopolymer, Random Copolymer, and Terpolymer. The Catalyst, Liquid Propylene, and Hydrogen for molecular weight control are fed continuously into the Loop Reactor. The heat of Reaction is removed by means of Cooling Water circulating into the Reactor Jackets. A Homogeneous Mixture of porous PP spheres (where Active Catalyst Resides) suspended in Liquid Propylene is circulated inside the Reactor Loop by means of a dedicated Pump. If the Production of Random Copolymer or Terpolymer is desired, Ethylene and/or Butane-1 are fed – in defined ratio with the Plant Capacity – into the Loop Reactor.

Reactor design

Bulk polymerization occurs in two loop reactors, connected in series to increase residence time.

Size: 24" diameter

Volume: Depending on plant capacity. Can vary from 20 to 70 m3.

Temperature: 70 to 80°C. Higher temperatures improve catalyst yield.

Pressure: 36 to 42 barg, 45 barg in new designs.