Bangkok - PTT Global Chemical (PTTGC) is conducting a feasibility study for an ethane cracker in the U.S. that would be based on shale gas from the Marcellus basin in the U.S., according to local reports quoting Chief Executive Supattanapong Punmeechaow.

The company is currently considering three sites that would have easy access to the Marcellus basin for the $4.5-billion project, which is expected to produce 1-million t/y of ethylene.

A decision on the location is anticipated by the end of March.  Following site selection and completion of the feasibility study, Supattanapong said the company will spend another year working out project details.

PTTGC is seeking a strategic partner for the project and is reported to be in talks with a Japanese firm.