June 24, 2025, LyondellBasell (LYB), the world’s largest licensor of polyolefin technologies, announced that SHCCIG Yulin Chemical Co., Ltd. (SHCCIG Yulin Chemical) will license four key technologies for a major new petrochemical complex in Yulin City, Shaanxi Province, China. The comprehensive technology package includes Spheripol and Spherizone technologies for two polypropylene plants (400 KTA each), Hostalen Advanced Cascade Process (Hostalen ACP) technology for a high-density polyethylene plant (300 KTA), and Lupotech T technology for a vinyl acetate copolymer plant (300 KTA).
“We are pleased that SHCCIG Yulin Chemical has awarded LyondellBasell these substantial licenses for the production of an extensive range of differentiating polyolefins,” said Patrik Schneider, senior director of licensing at LyondellBasell. “This comprehensive technology selection will enable SHCCIG Yulin Chemical to manufacture high-performance polypropylene and polyethylene products for diverse applications, while also producing vinyl acetate copolymer materials that support renewable energy applications, particularly photovoltaic encapsulants that contribute to the global energy transition”.
Mr. Xie Wuqiang, Vice General Manager of SHCCIG Yulin Chemical said, “Collaborating with the teams of the leading global licensor in polyolefin catalyst and process technology gives us additional confidence that the project will become a full success even in a more complex market environment. The LyondellBasell collaborative approach, focus on durable grades, extensive catalyst range, and the ability to produce EVA photovoltaic encapsulant materials were key process technology selection criteria for us. ”
Spheripol technology is the leading polypropylene (PP) process technology with more than 33 million tons of licensed capacity. The latest fifth generation Spheripol technology includes process improvements that further maximize operational efficiency.
The Spherizone multi-zone circulating reactor (MZCR) provides a unique and innovative platform to manufacture polypropylene products with novel architecture and enhanced product properties. More than 10 million tons of the Spherizone process for differentiated polypropylene production capacity has been licensed by LyondellBasell around the world.
The Hostalen ACP process technology manufactures high performance, multi-modal HDPE resins with an industry-leading stiffness/toughness balance, impact resistance, high stress cracking resistance and process advantages used in pressure pipe, film and blow molding applications.
Decades of experience in high-pressure application design makes the Lupotech T process the preferred technology for LDPE/EVA plant operators. High conversion rates, demonstrated high plant availability and effective process heat integration are key attributes of the Lupotech T process, designed to ensure energy efficiency. More than 15 million tons of the Lupotech T process for LDPE/EVA production capacity has been licensed by LyondellBasell in over 70 lines around the world.
Partnership-driven innovation and support
New licensees have the option of joining LyondellBasell's Technical Service Program, which exemplifies our commitment to ongoing collaboration and partnership. Through this program, customers benefit from LyondellBasell's in-house expertise in continuous production improvement, sustainable product development and catalyst optimization. We continuously seek new ways to collaborate with our customers, uncovering insights and iterating on our products and services to create stronger, more impactful experiences.
In addition to the Spheripol, Spherizone, Hostalen ACP and Lupotech T process technology, LyondellBasell’s portfolio of licensed polyolefin process and catalysts includes:
• Metocene PP – Innovative add-on technology produces specialty polypropylene products using single-site catalyst systems.
• Avant – Advanced Ziegler-Natta, including non-phthalate, chromium and metallocene catalysts for the entire range of polyolefin production.
