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%o conversion and 80% C 2 selectivity