Scientists of the Rosneft United Research and Development Centre have developed an innovative technology for processing acetone produced by Rosneft’s enterprises into isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol), a high-margin product that is now mainly imported in Russia. The technology includes hydrogenation of acetone with the Company’s own heterogeneous metal-containing catalyst, obtained from raw materials available in the country.

Technological potential development is one of the key items of the Rosneft-2022 Strategy. The Company pays special attention to innovation and breakthroughs, recognising the technological leadership as an essential element for competitive performance on the oil market.

The isopropanol will be used as an anti-icing agent in the production of the high-quality, odourless (as opposed to propylene-based isopropanol), frost-free car windscreen wiper fluid for the Company’s retail network. Isopropanol is also a component of solvents, reagents and a number of cosmetic products. Furthermore, it is the basis for highly effective antiseptics designed to combat the spread of infections, which is why the demand for isopropanol in Russia and worldwide is expected to grow significantly.

An industrial-grade acetone-to-isopropanol unit and in-house isopropanol-based windscreen wiper unit are to be constructed at Rosneft’s Novokuibyshevsk Petrochemical Company that has the relevant petrochemical profile.

Rosneft
Information Division
October 23, 2020

Keywords: Environmental News 2020