Economics of the oxidative coupling of methane as an add‐on unit for naphtha cracking

The feasibility of methane coupling as an add‐on unit to a naphtha cracker was studied. The existing cold box was used for separation of ethylene and unconverted methane, but arrangements were made for separation of the coupling by‐products. The cracker's methane was used as a feedstock. The concept is technically and economically feasible at spring 1992 prices, provided the catalyst meets the assumed 30% conversion and 80% C 2 selectivity.