Chemical Grade Dibutyl Ketone Production

Report Abstract

This report provides a techno-economic analysis of Dibutyl Ketone (DBK) production from levulinic acid in the United States. In this process, levulinic acid is hydrogenated over two catalytic bed, generating Fuel Grade DBK (90 wt% purity), which is further purified to produce Chemical Grade DBK (99.5 wt% purity). Valeric acid (86 wt% purity) is also generated as by-product.

The report provides a comprehensive study of Dibutyl Ketone production and related Dibutyl Ketone production cost, covering three key aspects: a complete description of the Dibutyl Ketone production process examined; an in-depth analysis of the related Dibutyl Ketone plant capital cost (Capex); and an evaluation of the respective Dibutyl Ketone plant operating costs (Opex).

The Dibutyl Ketone production process description includes a block flow diagram (BFD), an overview of the industrial site installations, detailing both the process unit and the necessary infrastructure, process consumption figures and comprehensive process flow diagrams (PFD). The Dibutyl Ketone plant capital cost analysis breaks down the Capex by plant cost (i.e., ISBL, OSBL and Contingency); owner's cost; working capital; and costs incurred during industrial plant commissioning and start-up. The Dibutyl Ketone plant operating costs analysis covers operating expenses, including variable costs like raw materials and utilities, and fixed costs such as maintenance, labor, and depreciation.