This effort was an independent technical review of a propylene glycol facility design combining existing, proven technologies and new proprietary reactor technology. The plant design converts low-value waste biodiesel crude glycerol into more valuable propylene glycol using a novel vapor-phase process. The propylene glycol produced was extremely pure (99.9%) and made using a sustainable bio-feedstock. Based on research conducted in cooperation with the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, the process is the first of its kind. The site location on an existing portion of an operating petrochemical facility adds an extra layer of complexity to the project execution and construction. An FEL-2 package developed by another engineering firm was reviewed for consistency with project production goals, continuity with the data collected at pilot facilities, and constructability. Also, the team provided comments and suggestions on the project execution plan and a draft EPC contract. The technical review team identified gaps requiring attention before financial close, quantified the risks, and developed personalized solutions.
