LyondellBasell to build world's largest PO, TBA plant in Houston area worth $2.4B

HOUSTON – LyondellBasell officials announced that the company is building the world’s largest Propylene oxide (PO) and tertiary Butyl alcohol (TBA) plant in the Houston area, one that will be worth $2.4 billion, according to the company.

The investment will the largest of its kind and is expected to create 2,500 jobs at the peak of construction and about 160 permanent positions after the completion of the plant.

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“This world-scale project is a key part of our organic growth strategy, which is designed to meet rising global demand for both urethanes and cleaner-burning oxyfuels while creating real, long-term value for our shareholders,” said Bob Patel, CEO of LyondellBasell. "Our investment in this plant combines the best of both worlds: our leading PO/TBA process technology with proximity to low-cost feedstocks, which gives LyondellBasell a competitive advantage in the global marketplace for these products.”

Company officials said once the structure is operating, PO will be used in the manufacturing of bedding, furniture, carpeting, coating, building material and adhesives, while TBA will produce components that helps gasoline burn cleaner and reduces emissions from automobiles.

LyondellBasell is one of the largest plastic, chemicals and refining companies in the world, the company said.

“We are pleased that LyondellBasell continues to view the Houston area as important to their global operations, creating jobs and opportunities for Houstonians,” said Bob Harvey, president and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership. “This new project further advances Houston’s position as a global hub of petrochemical manufacturing, leveraging Houston’s strategic access to the Americas and top markets around the world.”

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