Versalis and KBR enter agreement

Versalis (Eni), a major producer in the polymers and elastomers industry, and KBR Inc., a global technology, engineering, procurement and construction company, have announced they have entered a cooperation agreement for KBR to license Versalis' proprietary Ethylbenzene and Styrene Monomer Technologies (EB/SM). These technologies are used for productions in a large variety of applications including industrial and food packaging, household appliances, building insulation, electronic equipment, car components and toys.

Through this agreement, KBR and Versalis will offer competitive and flexible EthylBenzene and Styrene Monomer production technologies using Versalis' innovative zeolite-based catalysts and expert design capabilities. KBR will provide engineering support to deliver the license packages to clients.

Ethylbenzene is an organic compound used to produce Styrene, the main raw material to produce Styrenic Polymers, and for production of high performance Elastomers. Styrenics are exceptionally versatile plastic materials that are light, durable, highly insulating and provide good mechanical properties.

"This agreement is further proof of Versalis' solid technology background, acknowledged at an international level. The technological cooperation with KBR offers the opportunity to enhance our know-how and the value it brings," said Daniele Ferrari, Versalis CEO.

"This alliance reflects KBR's commitment to our core strengths," said John Derbyshire, KBR President of Technology and Consulting. "This is a great opportunity for KBR to expand our chemicals technology portfolio, providing innovative technologies that give our customers a competitive advantage in today's markets."

Edited from press release by Angharad Lock

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/petrochemicals/04112015/versalis-and-kbr-enter-styrenics-market-agreement-1551/