Shell Polymers Monaca (SPM), Pennsylvania, the chemical project of Shell Chemical Appalachia, is coming on stream.
An awaited factory
Shell Polymers Monaca is the first major polyethylene manufacturing complex in the northeast United States. The site has the capacity to produce 1.6 million tons of polyethylene per year. In addition, the project is part of the “Powering Progress” strategy.
The Shell Polymers Monaca plant will have three reactors. Indeed, the site includes two gas phase reactors and a sludge reactor. Huibert Vigeveno, Director of Shell Downstream, says:
“The construction of this world-class facility is a fantastic achievement that the team should be proud of; it is a showcase of Shell’s project delivery expertise. With excellent market access, innovative offerings and a connected infrastructure, Shell Polymers Monaca is well positioned and ready to serve customers with high-quality, competitive products.”
A strategic location
Shell Polymers Monaca is within 700 miles of 70 percent of the U.S. polyethylene market. The plant is located on 384 acres, adjacent to the Ohio River in Beaver County, Pennsylvania. The production unit offers its customers shorter supply chains, which translates into increased flexibility.
The start-up of SPM represents an important step in the growth of Shell’s chemical business. The company participates in value chains close to the end users and uses advantageous raw materials. In addition, it seeks to reduce exposure to basic chemicals over time.
