Ethylene

Ethylene

Ethylene is the simplest alkene with two carbon atoms and represents the largest manufactured organic chemical intermediate. Ethylene is mostly produced via steam cracking natural gas liquids (ethane, propane, butane, naphtha) and heavier feedstocks. Other ethylene production processes include methanol-to-olefins, catalytic dehydrogenation of ethanol, and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. The largest use of ethylene is to produce polyethylene, with other main uses being the eventual production of styrene, PVC, and ethylene glycol (MEG).