Process Design, Simulation, and Economic Evaluation of a Dbsa Manufacturing Plant in the Philippines

Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DBSA) is a key industrial chemical primarily manufactured from Dodecylbenzene and Sulfur Trioxide. Utilizing the advanced Film Sulfonation Process, which involves three major steps, this method significantly enhances DBSA production efficiency. The process starts with the combustion of sulfur to generate sulfur dioxide, followed by the oxidation of sulfur dioxide into sulfur trioxide, and concludes with the sulfonation of dodecylbenzene using sulfur trioxide to produce DBSA. This project proposes the establishment of a modern DBSA manufacturing plant within the Calaca Industrial Seaport Park, with a planned annual production capacity of 30,000 t. Given the projected Philippine market demand of 80,057 t by 2030, the project showcases strong economic potential, starting with a capital cost of approximately 2.5 billion Php, offering a payback period of 5.07 y and an impressive 47.50 % return on investment (ROI). The facility will employ cutting-edge technologies and maintain strict quality standards to ensure the production of premium grade DBSA at competitive costs. Furthermore, the plant will fully adhere to the Philippine environmental and safety regulations, supporting safe, sustainable, and responsible operations. This project aims to address the rising domestic demand for DBSA, contributing to the nation’s industrial growth and economic sustainability.