Morpholine Manufacturing Plant Project Report 2026: Cost Analysis, ROI, and Feasibility Insights

Morpholine is produced by reacting diethylene glycol with ammonia in the presence of hydrogen and a hydrogenation-dehydrogenation catalyst. The gas-phase reaction is typically conducted at about 150 to 400 degree Celsius and elevated pressure. Nickel-, copper-, cobalt-, or mixed-metal catalysts can be used. After reaction, excess ammonia and hydrogen are recovered or recycled, while morpholine is separated from water and other reaction products through fractional distillation. Modern processes can use fixed-bed or trickle-bed catalytic reactors to improve conversion and reduce recycle requirements.

The key feedstocks are diethylene glycol (DEG) and ammonia, with hydrogen used as a process reactant and catalyst-supporting medium. DEG generally represents approximately 75% to 90% of direct raw material expenditure, while ammonia accounts for around 10% to 25%, depending on feedstock prices, ammonia recovery, and process conditions. Together, DEG and ammonia typically account for approximately 70% to 85% of total raw material expenditure.