ExxonMobil last Monday announced that it has started production at its new synthetics base stocks plant in Baytown, Texas.
Product testing and qualification are complete, and we are now shipping high viscosity SpectraSyn Elite metallocene polyalphaolefin from our new facility to our customers, said Damon Davis, vice president of global synthetic fluids and lubricant base stocks business for ExxonMobil Chemical. We have also completed a demonstration test confirming the plants capacity to produce 50,000 tons per year.
Developed using a proprietary metallocene catalyst process, SpectraSyn Elite mPAO base stocks are scientifically engineered to offer improved performance characteristics relative to conventional PAO base stocks. Enhanced attributes include higher viscosity index, improved shear stability and better low-temperature properties. SpectraSyn Elite mPAO can help formulators manufacture automotive and industrial finished lubricants that offer greater durability, enhanced energy efficiency and extended drain intervals.
In addition to the new Baytown plant, the companys expansion project at its chemical plant in Baton Rouge, Louisiana will increase ExxonMobils worldwide capacity of synthetic esters and alkylated naphthalene by more than 25 percent to meet demand for high-performance lubricants made with these advanced products. Construction is under way and startup of the new facility is expected in 2015.
ExxonMobil Chemical Esterex esters add enhanced lubricating properties, along with low volatility and good solubility, to engine and industrial lubricant applications. Synesstic alkylated naphthalene (AN) base stocks are outstanding base fluids and blend stocks for lubricants in a variety of automotive and industrial applications. Lubricants formulated with Synesstic AN can be more stable and higher performing.
We are committed to providing our customers with innovative high-quality products, so we take a long term view in all of our investment decisions to ensure supply reliability for many years to come, Davis added.
