Acrylonitrile Production

  • Each year, more than 10 billion pounds of acrylonitrile (AN) are produced globally, including over 3 billion pounds in the U.S. at six plants.

  • Acrylonitrile (AN) is produced by reacting propylene, ammonia, oxygen in the presence of a catalyst - historically referred to as the "Sohio" process.

  • This catalytic ammoxiadation of propylene is represented by the following equation: 2CH3-CH=CH2 + 2NH3 + 3O2 2CH2=CH-CN + 6H2O.

  • The process can yield more than 80% acrylonitrile, as well as 10-15% useful chemical co-products. Wastes by-products from the process are managed according to strict government regulations and voluntary industry standards to protect people and the environment.