Aromatics (Benzene, Toluene, Xylenes) are high value petrochemicals produced by the catalytic reforming of naphthas, and recovered from the "reformate" stream by extraction. The reformate may be produced specifically as a source of BTX, or as a high-octane gasoline blending component. Whether or not other aromatics are recovered, it is sometimes necessary to remove benzene from reformate in order to meet US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandated specifications on gasoline composition.

HEA's experience includes both the principles and operating practice of liquid-liquid extraction and extractive distillation, proper operating techniques for maintenance of solvent purity, and BTX separations and product specifications. HEA is familiar with the major proprietary licensed extraction processes and solvents including the Udex, Sulfolane, and Carom processes, and glycol (di-, tri-, and tetra-ethylene), and sulfolane solvents.

HEA’s Associates have compared competitive processes and solvents both for new and for revamp applications, at a variety of US and Canadian locations. Typically, such studies involve mathematical modeling to determine the most economic operating conditions (feedstock, rate, solvent) of existing BTX units, and /or the size and best configuration for design of new units, as well as investment and operating cost analysis.

HEA'S experience also includes negotiation of performance guarantees with licensors for prospective licensees, and the development of the detailed design basis for new units.

Based on your description of your extraction project objectives HEA will be pleased respond, describing how we believe we can best serve your needs.