Next Wave completes ethylene-to-alkylate plant

Next Wave Energy Partners has completed a plant in Pasadena, Texas, that converts ethylene into alkylate, a high-octane component that is blended into gasoline. Alkylate is usually produced in refineries by reacting butene and other olefins with isobutane. Next Wave says production of its alkylate, which is derived entirely from natural gas, is less greenhouse gas intensive. The plant will consume about 500,000 metric tons of ethylene per year. For its next project, Next Wave is aiming to make ethylene, alkylate, and sustainable aviation fuel from ethanol.