Ethylbenzene

MOGAS valve design is ideal for critical chemical applications of ethylbenzene and styrene production.

Ethylbenzene is a volatile organic compound found in natural products such as coal tar and petroleum. It appears as a clear, colorless liquid with an odor similar to gasoline.

Almost all ethylbenzene is used in the production of styrene. It is also used as a solvent, in fuels and to make other chemicals.

Hazards from ethylbenzene production include:

Short-term exposure results in respiratory effects, such as throat irritation and chest constriction, irritation of the eyes, and neurological effects such as dizziness. Limited information is available on the long-term carcinogenic effects of ethylbenzene in humans. EPA has classified ethylbenzene as a Group D, not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity.

Ethylbenzene is a very dangerous fire hazard, and emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. The vapour mixes well with air, and explosive mixtures are easily formed.

Typical Operating Conditions:

Temperature: 50 – 450° F (10 – 232° C)
Pressure: 50 – 550 psig (3.4 – 38 bar g)
Volatile

Ethylene Oxide Process Flow Diagram

Fresh Ethylene
Fresh Benzene
Total Benzene
Alkylation Reactor
Trans-Alkylation Reactor
Overhead Recycle Benzene
Benzene Distillation Column
Recycle Polybenzene
Ethylbenzene Distillation Column

Heat Exchanger (not shown)
General Ball Valves (not shown)