Exelus Styrene Monomer ( ExSyM ) Process (Case Study)

In this chapter, we give an overview of the Exelus Styrene Monomer (ExSyM) process that uses the side-chain alkylation (SCA) reaction of toluene with methanol to produce styrene monomer. The chapter starts with an introduction of the current styrene industry and a discussion of the commercial processes used currently to manufacture styrene. We also discuss the side-chain reaction mechanism, followed by the various types of catalyst that have been investigated for this reaction. Furthermore, this section includes catalysts that have been both investigated in academia and industry. This is followed by a general overview of the ExSyM technology, the research and development, and piloting stages. The catalyst, reactor, and process design are then discussed in detail. Finally, this chapter ends with a discussion of economic competitiveness of the ExSyM process, followed by the outlook for the future of the ExSyM process.