Ethylene Oxide Catalysts
Shell Catalysts & Technologies has been reinventing ethylene oxide catalyst possibilities for more than 80 years, constantly and consistently improving their performance. Shell was the inventor of every class of EO catalyst. The inventions of the first High Selectivity and later High-Performance catalysts define the current landscape of EO production globally.
On-demand webinar: Navigating the challenging glycol market
Stream the on-demand webinar to see how we outline short-, medium- and long-term solutions, by profiling real-world case studies that demonstrate how EO/EG plant operators can manage turndown by utilising strategies for extremely low work rates, select the best catalyst by using detailed value-analysis tools, and more.
Ethylene Oxide Catalyst Solutions
The most important measure of ethylene oxide catalyst performance is selectivity, defined as the molar yield of ethylene oxide produced per molar quantity of ethylene reacted. Another important parameter is activity, the catalyst temperature required to achieve the desired EO production level. Shell Catalysts & Technologies鈥� scientists have focused on improving not only the initial selectivity performance of our ethylene oxide catalysts but also the activity and the average catalyst selectivity throughout life.
Our High Selectivity catalysts offer unrivalled initial selectivity and excellent stability, leading the industry in performance. Our Hybrid catalysts were created to offer an alternative to plants designed to run High Activity catalyst, and over time have improved to a level where they now offer a huge enhancement in selectivity over High Activity.
Highly active, highly selective EO catalysts make up Shell Catalysts & Technologies鈥� High-Performance catalyst family which can operate for long periods at significantly higher work rates than other catalyst types and are more tolerant of higher CO2 concentrations. Additionally, Shell鈥檚 High-Performance EO catalysts also experience consistently slower performance decline over time, thereby offering the highest average selectivity levels of any catalysts available.
Thanks to our track record of innovation, our market leadership in ethylene oxide catalysts has been sustained for over 30 years.
Ethylene Oxide Catalyst Frequently Asked Questions
Ethylene oxide (EO) is a vital chemical used in various industries, and catalysts play a crucial role in its production process. So, here we address commonly asked questions about the all-important ethylene oxide catalysts. We explore the catalysts employed, their purpose in accelerating the reaction between ethylene and oxygen, and how they enhance the selectivity, efficiency and yield of the final product. Discover more about the catalysts driving ethylene oxide (EO) production and their role in enabling the production of this versatile compound.
Our Key Strengths in EO/EG Technology
- Pioneer and industry leader in EO process and catalyst technology development
- The largest EO catalyst supplier with world-class manufacturing facilities
- Experienced and responsive technical team who work with customers to identify opportunities to improve plant profitability; operations & reliability
- More than 50% of the world鈥檚 EO is made using Shell technology
How I support energy transition journeys in India through ethylene oxide catalysts
Jagdish Rao discusses the challenges of the energy transition and how catalysts can play a key part in providing solutions.
Trade release: Mitsui Chemicals Selects Ethylene Oxide Catalyst from Shell Catalysts & Technologies
The catalyst is expected to provide economic benefits and help reduce CO鈧� emissions.
Thriving in the new reality: Ethylene oxide unit revamp scenario
As ethylene oxide producers re-examine operating and investment plans, it is important to consider alternative ways to improve profitability. Download the scenario and explore how you can reduce energy and production costs, change the product mix and increase work rate.