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TCEQ Increases Scrutiny of Ethylene & Propylene Plants

For more information, contact Ed Fiesinger at 713.977.8787.  

Users and manufacturers of ethylene and propylene in the Houston-Galveston area should be aware that, based upon preliminary findings of the 2000 Texas Air Quality Study, the TCEQ plans to increase scrutiny of ethylene and propylene facilities.

The study, which requested industry to submit an hour-by-hour emissions inventory for an extended period during August and September 2000, shows a significant correlation between ozone exceedances and emissions of certain chemicals, including ethylene and propylene (reactive hydrocarbons).

Possibilities under consideration include comparison of emissions inventory responses vs. permitted values, a detailed analysis of upset / maintenance reports involving these two chemicals, or both.