Vacido VAM Process

Vacido technology by LyondellBasell is a fixed-bed tubular process utilizing a proprietary and highly efficient heterogeneous catalyst system for the efficient production and purification of high-quality vinyl acetate monomer (VAM).

The combination of an advantaged reactor system, best-in-class QVAM-2 catalyst, optimized energy utilization, and efficient product purification results in leading economics for Vacido process plants. The QVAM-2 catalyst in particular exhibits a superior life span, along with very high single-pass conversion rates, regeneration effectiveness, and a catalyst life up to three times longer than other market alternatives.

Safety and environment

  • LyondellBasell process technologies have a proven safety record that is among the best in the industry
  • Well-proven safety design criteria employed for piping and equipment in oxygen service
  • Low-resource consumption at moderate operating conditions
  • Reduced energy consumption through heat integration and an optimized purification process

Process technology

  • Advantaged QVAM-2 catalyst technology
  • High-purity VAM suitable for all applications
  • Simple fixed-bed, tubular reaction system
  • Proven ethylene acetoxylation reaction route
  • Fully flexible design to meet local requirements, including integration with Glacido acetic acid process technology
  • Continuous research is conducted to improve reaction catalysts and process design
  • Expert technology services group with extensive hands-on experience for the life of the investment

Economics

  • Simplified reactor, purification system and operations with proven plant availability exceeding 95 percent
  • Annual capacities exceeding 400 KT per year
  • Proprietary QVAM-2 catalyst delivering best-in-class operating and working-capital economics

Competitive capital costs

  • Optimized purification section and energy integration
  • Minimal maintenance requirements
  • Automated process design with minimal manpower requirements


Vacido and Glacido are trademarks owned or used by LyondellBasell group companies.

Related Information

Highlights

Highly proven technology for the production of vinyl acetate monomer through the reaction of acetic acid, oxygen and ethylene