What is a Cracker Plant?

Ethane Cracking Explained

An ethane cracker plant is a large-scale industrial facility that takes ethane — a component of fracked natural gas — and subjects it to extreme heat and pressure. This process "cracks" the ethane molecules into smaller compounds, primarily ethylene, which is then converted into polyethylene plastic pellets. These pellets are the raw material for countless single-use plastic products.

The proposed PTT Global Chemical facility would be located in Dilles Bottom, Ohio, approximately five miles south of Shadyside, OH, and directly west across the Ohio River from Moundsville, West Virginia. PTT Global is a Thailand-based petrochemical company.

An ethane cracker plant is a massive industrial facility that processes a component of fracked natural gas called ethane. Through intense heat and pressure, the ethane molecules are broken apart, or cracked, to produce ethylene. This chemical is then converted into small plastic pellets called nurdles, which serve as the raw material for countless single-use plastic items, from packaging to disposable containers. The proposed facility in the Ohio River Valley would be among the largest of its kind in the region, requiring substantial infrastructure including pipelines, storage tanks, and constant transportation of materials. Such plants operate continuously, emitting pollutants around the clock and consuming vast amounts of energy and water.

Residents and environmental organizations have raised serious concerns about the air quality impacts of a cracker plant in the Ohio Valley. These facilities release fine particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and other pollutants linked to respiratory illness, cardiovascular problems, and other health issues. The region already faces environmental challenges from existing industrial activity, and adding a petrochemical complex would increase the cumulative burden on local communities. Water usage and contamination risks are also significant, as the cracking process requires large volumes of water and generates chemical byproducts that must be carefully managed. Carbon emissions from such plants contribute substantially to greenhouse gas levels, undermining climate goals.

A dedicated coalition of local citizens, community groups, and environmental organizations has formed to oppose the construction of the cracker plant in the Ohio River Valley. Through public meetings, educational events, and outreach to elected officials, these concerned residents are working to ensure their voices are heard in the permitting and decision-making processes. The opposition efforts focus on highlighting the long-term environmental and health costs of the project, questioning the economic benefits promised by the company, and advocating for sustainable alternatives to petrochemical development. Organizers emphasize that the beautiful river valley and the health of its communities should not be sacrificed for a facility that would primarily benefit a foreign corporation.

Environmental & Health Concerns

Cracker plants are associated with significant emissions of volatile organic compounds, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Communities near similar facilities have reported increased rates of respiratory illness and environmental contamination. The Ohio River Valley's geography — with its narrow river corridor and frequent temperature inversions — can trap pollutants close to ground level, amplifying exposure for residents in Dilles Bottom and surrounding communities.

Additionally, the plant would require substantial water withdrawals from the Ohio River and produce toxic wastewater requiring treatment and discharge.

Learn More

Explore additional resources to understand the full picture of what this facility would mean for our region: