Revolutionizing Olefin Recovery: Braskem and Ardent Complete Landmark Membrane Project

​Optiperm™ Olefins  Source: Ardent Technology

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Braskem, the largest polyolefins producer in the Americas, and Ardent Process Technologies have announced the successful completion of a multi-year joint development program focused on advancing Optiperm™ Olefins, a cutting-edge membrane-based olefin-paraffin separation technology. This development marks a significant breakthrough in improving efficiency and sustainability in polyolefin production.
The collaboration began in November 2020 and involved installing a dedicated demonstration unit at Braskem’s facilities, where the Optiperm™ system underwent rigorous field testing. Over 10,000 hours of testing validated the membrane’s performance across critical metrics, including separation efficiency, durability, and operational stability.
Unlike conventional processes that often require full splitter upgrades, the modular membrane system enables olefin recovery from purge gas streams without extensive infrastructure modifications—making it a more flexible and cost-effective solution for industrial plants.
Based on the success of the pilot phase, Braskem has confirmed its commitment to moving forward with commercial-scale implementation of the technology. Engineering and design work for the first commercial installation is already underway.
Leaders from both companies emphasized the technology’s potential to transform olefin-paraffin separation, reduce energy consumption, and align with sustainability goals, particularly Braskem’s aim to lead innovation in the chemical and plastics industry while advancing toward carbon neutrality.
This milestone not only positions Optiperm™ as a high-impact solution for the petrochemical sector but also strengthens the broader membrane platform developed by Ardent for other industrial applications.
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