How Refiners Can Capitalise on the Petrochemical Industry

April 6, 2020 | 549 views

Do you fancy a piece of Petrochemical Pie? As the demand for refined products is falling and demand for petrochemical products is increasing, it is vital that refiners consider petrochemical integration, which offers increased flexibility and a competitive edge. Learn more below about the benefits, considerations and recent projects, and, how the double whammy of the oil price crash and the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the petrochemical market.

Spotlight

Illumina

At Illumina, our goal is to apply innovative technologies and revolutionary assays to the analysis of genetic variation and function, making studies possible that were not even imaginable just a few years ago. These studies will help make the realization of personalized medicine possible. With such rapid advances in technology taking place, it is mission critical to have solutions that are not only innovative, but flexible, scalable, and complete with industry-leading support and service. As a global company that places high value on collaborative interactions, rapid delivery of solutions, and prioritizing the needs of its customers, we strive to meet this challenge. Illumina’s innovative, array-based solutions for DNA, RNA, and protein analysis serve as tools for disease research, drug development, and the development of molecular tests in the clinic.

OTHER ARTICLES
Chemical Management

Organic Oil Recovery improves productivity of existing reservoirs

Article | July 22, 2021

MAY 2021 ///Vol 242 No. 5 FEATURES Organic Oil Recovery improves productivity of existing reservoirs A transitional technology producing excellent results in extracting hard-to-reach oil is attracting the attention of many large operators. Ancient, resident microbes are used to liberate large oil deposits in depleted reservoirs, thanks to science uncovered by studying the humble Australian koala. Roger Findlay, Organic Oil Recovery It began in almost outlandish fashion, with a scientist’s fascination with the complex digestive system of an Australian marsupial, the koala. Today, it has evolved into a green technology that is helping major producers around the world potentially reach billions of dollars of oil that they feared they could never access or bring to the surface. As the pressure on the oil and gas industry continues to grow, to find new ways to operate with less impact on the environment, Organic Oil Recovery (OOR) is reducing the need for further exploration. Instead, it is helping producers focus on the reservoirs already in situ to extract even more precious resource—at very low cost—from deep below the ground or seas, across a myriad of jurisdictions and geographies.

Read More
Chemical Management

The supply-chain inflation threat to petrochemicals demand

Article | July 14, 2022

Petrochemicals themselves remain in short supply. This is partly because of reduced feedstock from refineries, a consequence of the pandemic-related collapse in transportation fuels demand.Global petrochemical supply is still edging back to something like normal following the US winter storms in February, during which most US capacity was shut down. A point of discussion is whether containers will become available in the right places at the right prices to relieve tightness in the European polyethylene (PE) market, once US supply has normalised. The container issue is making it difficult to move PE and polypropylene (PP) cargoes from Asia to Europe.Market intelligence from the US-based ICIS CDI team indicates that enough container freight space will be available to resume significant shipments of US PE to Europe, albeit at high prices. It will be several more weeks before domestic pipelines have been refilled, enabling US producers to refocus on exports, added CDI.

Read More
Chemical Technology

Developing pre-rig solutions that are greener, safer and more efficient

Article | July 20, 2022

MAY 2021 ///Vol 242 No. 5 FEATURES Developing pre-rig solutions that are greener, safer and more efficient There is an increased focus in the oil and gas sector to look further afield to opportunities presented in deepwater locations. Because of this, finding cost-efficient solutions and overcoming the associated challenges that arise below 1,000 ft will be vital for the success of new activity. Jostein Aleksandersen, Neodrill There is an increased focus in the oil and gas sector to look further afield to opportunities presented in deepwater locations. Because of this, finding cost-efficient solutions and overcoming the associated challenges that arise below 1,000 ft will be vital for the success of new activity. All those currently—and those considering—operating in deepwater fields will have an awareness of the general challenges that are presented at such depths. From considerations relating to vast increases in pressure, to the potential for increased drilling time and days spent offshore, there are several hurdles that follow when operating in what are often challenging well environments. In addition, suitable solutions also must support the industry drive to reduce emissions by offering a more carbon-efficient approach.

Read More
Chemical Management

Key Trends in the Digital Transformation of the Chemical Industry

Article | July 14, 2022

The chemical business is intricate, with numerous sub-sectors dealing with various challenges. Thus, there are some differences in the sector's main areas of digitalization. For instance, while specialty chemicals with smaller batches but larger profit margins are concerned with improving quality, large factories are concentrated on accelerating throughput speed. To be able to react to quick and repeated changes in demand, supply, and working circumstances, however, every plant must optimize output, reduce waste, improve safety and sustainability, and become more nimble. Therefore, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing are expected to be the three most popular applications for digital transformation during the coming two years. Key Trends Production Optimization The first and most valuable use cases of digitalization in chemical plants center on production optimization through improved equipment performance, process automation, remote and predictive monitoring, and simplified maintenance. Chemical factories, which often provide basic chemicals for use as end products in other sectors, have a special responsibility to maintain consistently high product quality. However, doing so can be challenging given the significant variations in raw material supply and quality. In addition, as process engineers can change the mix on the fly in reaction to fluctuations in quality, feedstock, or ambient temperatures, better data and analytics enable finer and more frequent adjustments. Lowering Waste The main advantage of digitally transformed plants so far has been cost reduction. The price volatility of raw materials is a problem for the chemical production sector because customers naturally want constant low prices. Minimizing waste is critical since facilities must contend with rising energy costs. Analytics tools that monitor fluctuating raw material prices aid factories in negotiating the best deals with suppliers and preparing in advance for price spikes. The risk of oversupply is reduced since plants can prepare the proper quantities of various products thanks to more precise demand predictions. Sustainability, Compliance, and Safety The chemical industry is heavily regulated as a result of the quantity of hazardous chemicals and the number of end-use industries that rely on it. Businesses are adopting digital transformation to boost safety awareness, reduce emissions and dangerous flare incidents, and guarantee a transparent and accurate audit trail. Plants that quickly adopt digital solutions for remote monitoring, supply chain visibility, waste reduction, production optimization, raising their safety profile, and opening up new opportunities will profit from higher profits and increased revenue, whereas those that hesitate for too long risk failing in the long run.

Read More

Spotlight

Illumina

At Illumina, our goal is to apply innovative technologies and revolutionary assays to the analysis of genetic variation and function, making studies possible that were not even imaginable just a few years ago. These studies will help make the realization of personalized medicine possible. With such rapid advances in technology taking place, it is mission critical to have solutions that are not only innovative, but flexible, scalable, and complete with industry-leading support and service. As a global company that places high value on collaborative interactions, rapid delivery of solutions, and prioritizing the needs of its customers, we strive to meet this challenge. Illumina’s innovative, array-based solutions for DNA, RNA, and protein analysis serve as tools for disease research, drug development, and the development of molecular tests in the clinic.

Related News

Chemical Management

Danimer Scientific and Chevron Phillips Chemical Expand Collaboration to Include Application Development for Rinnovo™ Polymers

businesswire | September 21, 2023

Danimer Scientific, Inc. a leading next-generation bioplastics company focused on the development and production of biodegradable materials, today announced it is expanding its collaboration with Chevron Phillips Chemical (“CPChem”) to explore development and commercialization of cast extrusion films, blown extrusion films, injection molded parts and rotational molded parts using Rinnovo™ polymers produced in a loop slurry reactor process. Rinnovo™ is a type of polyhydroxyalkanoate (“PHA”) synthesized from lactones produced using Danimer’s proprietary Novo22™ catalyst technology, which can be used in the production of biodegradable alternatives to traditional plastics. The collaboration expands on Danimer and CPChem’s previously announced agreement, in which Danimer is evaluating the use of CPChem’s loop slurry reactor design to develop a continuous reactor system in the manufacturing process for Rinnovo™. Stephen E. Croskrey, chief executive officer of Danimer, said, “Our business relationship with CPChem continues to yield results, and we’re excited for the further opportunities that lie ahead. CPChem’s Research and Technology lab in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, is a premier facility staffed with world-class talent that we believe will accelerate the path toward adoption of Rinnovo™ materials in high-volume applications that will assist in lowering the cost to serve key markets.” Opened in 1950 by Phillips 66, CPChem’s Bartlesville facility contains first-class research equipment allowing for rapid testing of products across various processing conditions. Additionally, the facility’s testing and analytical capabilities provide a more rapid feedback loop, accelerating the development and optimization of resin formulations. “We continue to be excited about the potential of our MarTECH® process technology and related collaborations to advance Danimer’s Rinnovo™, another CPChem initiative that can help accelerate change for a more sustainable future,” said Venki Chandrashekar, CPChem vice president of research and technology. About Danimer Scientific Danimer is a pioneer in creating more sustainable, more natural ways to make plastic products. For more than a decade, its renewable and sustainable biopolymers have helped create plastic products that are biodegradable and compostable and return to nature instead of polluting our lands and waters. Danimer’s technology can be found in a vast array of plastic end products that people use every day. Applications for its biopolymers include additives, aqueous coatings, fibers, filaments, films and injection-molded articles, among others. Danimer holds more than 430 granted patents and pending patent applications in more than 20 countries for a range of manufacturing processes and biopolymer formulations.

Read More

Chemical Management

Vantage® Launches "Effortless Color" Formulation Collection for Multifunctional Color Cosmetic Essentials

prnewswire | September 14, 2023

Vantage has just introduced "Effortless Color," a collection of eight color cosmetic formulations building on consumer trends for multifunctional products. The latest installment in its 'Spark Inspiration' quick formulation program offers cosmetic chemists and formulators a starting point to accelerate their innovation pipeline as they create new product formulations. The eight "Effortless Color" formulations range from hybrid foundations to multi-use blushes and bold lip products. These prototypes marry the advanced technology from Vantage's premium ingredients with formulations expertise from the Company's in-house research & development team. Supported by market trends and industry knowledge, the resulting kit offers beauty manufacturers high-performing, on-trend product formulations which can be used as is or as a starting point for their creations. "Guided by market insights revealing that more than two thirds of American makeup users seek multi-functional products, we've meticulously curated formulations that honor the diverse spectrum of beauty through effortless, yet multifaceted essentials. This new collection is the latest of our Spark Inspiration series, that are aimed at accelerating our beauty customers' innovation pipeline," said Sebastien Massard, Global Director Strategic Marketing, Personal Care. The collection's hybrid foundations, multi-use blushes and bold lip formulations feature the Company's high-performing ingredients including actives like the BP TRILURONIC ACID A and the STRATAPHIX series; natural oils such as LIPOVOL® GTB and DW JOJOBA OIL; and natural silicone alternatives from the JEECHEM® NDA line. The formulations include Three versatile face products. Fresh Canvas Multi-Use Concealer can be used as a spot treatment to hide blemishes or as a full-coverage foundation. Tinted Zinc Shield is a lightweight tinted moisturizer that also includes an SPF-30. Hydrating Tinted Face Oil offers a buildable finish and can be applied on its own or worn as a primer before adding concealer or foundation. Blush Duo to bring a pop of color and help create a cohesive makeup look. Color Sculpt Trio is presented as a stick formula that glides on smoothly and quickly as it's applied. All-Over Glow Blusher can be used to brighten cheeks and eyes, acting as a two-in-one liquid blush. Three formulated lip products that each provide a different finish and benefit. The Hydrating Satin Lipstick is made with hydrating ingredients which offer a rich, creamy formulation. Dreamy Velvet Lip, a bold, matte liquid lipstick, leaves a smooth, lush finish. Plush Fruity Gloss provides a glassy shine leaving the lips feeling full and plump. About Vantage Personal Care Vantage Personal Care is one of the fastest growing and most reliable suppliers of personal care and beauty formulations and ingredients. An agile provider of forward-looking solutions that delight our customers through a responsible portfolio of naturally derived products, Vantage Personal Care focuses on skin, hair and sun care and color cosmetics. Vantage Personal Care serves its customers with formulation troubleshooting, new product development, and alternative sourcing solutions and on being the fastest developer of new product concepts in sensorial textures, skin health & delivery systems, and natural oils.

Read More

Chemical Management

Lummus and RWDC Announce Agreement to Accelerate and Scale PHA Production

prnewswire | September 12, 2023

Lummus Technology, a global provider of process technologies and value-driven energy solutions, and RWDC Industries, a biotechnology company developing biopolymer material solutions, announced a binding Joint Development and Commercial Cooperation Agreement (JDCCA) to rapidly expand manufacturing and global licensing of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). In April, Lummus and RWDC signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to cooperate on global PHA deployment initiatives. "This agreement highlights Lummus and RWDC's strong commitment to addressing plastic waste and the carbon footprint associated with conventional plastics production," said Leon de Bruyn, Lummus Technology's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Our partnership in this innovative space aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting our ongoing dedication to developing technologies that accelerate the use and availability of eco-friendly plastics." "We look forward to the value that will be created in combining Lummus' expertise with ours to improve people's lives and health by making PHA polymers and resins available at large scale," said Dr. Daniel Carraway, RWDC's Chief Executive Officer. "It has always been our goal to develop sustainable materials that benefit every living thing on the planet, and this partnership is a monumental step in that direction. Lummus' and RWDC's decision to work together is an exciting development toward making it possible for more people to benefit from natural materials while preserving resources and our environment for future generations." RWDC uses plant-based oils, including post-consumer or waste cooking oils, to produce its proprietary Solon™ PHA, which can be organically recycled or composted in home and industrial composting facilities. Products or packaging made with PHA that find their way into the environment, therefore, will fully biodegrade in soil, fresh water, and marine settings, preventing persistent plastics and microplastics from accumulating in the environment. Articles produced with PHA also can be recycled, re-used or returned to the carbon cycle by way of organic recycling or composting systems. Lummus' interest in pursuing this partnership is testament to RWDC's attractiveness to licensors, due to its demonstrable technology innovation and technical capabilities; commercial value proposition and unit economics; and existing global brand partnerships that continuously validate market demand. RWDC is uniquely positioned as the only PHA manufacturer in the market to provide scalable and cost-effective biopolymer production and first- and best-in-class formulation capabilities and guidance on conversion for product development. Licensing and technology development through its forthcoming partnership with Lummus further enhances RWDC's position as a market leader. Moreover, Lummus' polymer expertise, illustrated through its Novolen® polypropylene technology, highlights a commitment to innovation and sustainable solutions in polyolefin technology to drive transformative change within the plastics industry. About Lummus Lummus Technology is the global leader in developing technology solutions that make modern life possible and focus on a more sustainable, low carbon future. We license process technologies in clean fuels, renewables, petrochemicals, polymers, gas processing and supply lifecycle services, catalysts, proprietary equipment and digitalization to customers worldwide. About RWDC Industries Founded in 2016, RWDC Industries is a biotechnology company that utilizes natural processes to produce materials for use in our daily lives. RWDC develops innovative, cost-effective biopolymer material solutions, including Solon™ PHA, a fully biodegradable and environmentally safe material that can replace plastic in a wide range of applications from single use articles to consumer goods or food packaging to non-wovens and textiles. RWDC supports sustainable practices and encourages responsible choice in plastic waste management, including recycling, to protect our environment and planet. Its global headquarters is in Singapore and operational headquarters is in Athens, Georgia.

Read More

Chemical Management

Danimer Scientific and Chevron Phillips Chemical Expand Collaboration to Include Application Development for Rinnovo™ Polymers

businesswire | September 21, 2023

Danimer Scientific, Inc. a leading next-generation bioplastics company focused on the development and production of biodegradable materials, today announced it is expanding its collaboration with Chevron Phillips Chemical (“CPChem”) to explore development and commercialization of cast extrusion films, blown extrusion films, injection molded parts and rotational molded parts using Rinnovo™ polymers produced in a loop slurry reactor process. Rinnovo™ is a type of polyhydroxyalkanoate (“PHA”) synthesized from lactones produced using Danimer’s proprietary Novo22™ catalyst technology, which can be used in the production of biodegradable alternatives to traditional plastics. The collaboration expands on Danimer and CPChem’s previously announced agreement, in which Danimer is evaluating the use of CPChem’s loop slurry reactor design to develop a continuous reactor system in the manufacturing process for Rinnovo™. Stephen E. Croskrey, chief executive officer of Danimer, said, “Our business relationship with CPChem continues to yield results, and we’re excited for the further opportunities that lie ahead. CPChem’s Research and Technology lab in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, is a premier facility staffed with world-class talent that we believe will accelerate the path toward adoption of Rinnovo™ materials in high-volume applications that will assist in lowering the cost to serve key markets.” Opened in 1950 by Phillips 66, CPChem’s Bartlesville facility contains first-class research equipment allowing for rapid testing of products across various processing conditions. Additionally, the facility’s testing and analytical capabilities provide a more rapid feedback loop, accelerating the development and optimization of resin formulations. “We continue to be excited about the potential of our MarTECH® process technology and related collaborations to advance Danimer’s Rinnovo™, another CPChem initiative that can help accelerate change for a more sustainable future,” said Venki Chandrashekar, CPChem vice president of research and technology. About Danimer Scientific Danimer is a pioneer in creating more sustainable, more natural ways to make plastic products. For more than a decade, its renewable and sustainable biopolymers have helped create plastic products that are biodegradable and compostable and return to nature instead of polluting our lands and waters. Danimer’s technology can be found in a vast array of plastic end products that people use every day. Applications for its biopolymers include additives, aqueous coatings, fibers, filaments, films and injection-molded articles, among others. Danimer holds more than 430 granted patents and pending patent applications in more than 20 countries for a range of manufacturing processes and biopolymer formulations.

Read More

Chemical Management

Vantage® Launches "Effortless Color" Formulation Collection for Multifunctional Color Cosmetic Essentials

prnewswire | September 14, 2023

Vantage has just introduced "Effortless Color," a collection of eight color cosmetic formulations building on consumer trends for multifunctional products. The latest installment in its 'Spark Inspiration' quick formulation program offers cosmetic chemists and formulators a starting point to accelerate their innovation pipeline as they create new product formulations. The eight "Effortless Color" formulations range from hybrid foundations to multi-use blushes and bold lip products. These prototypes marry the advanced technology from Vantage's premium ingredients with formulations expertise from the Company's in-house research & development team. Supported by market trends and industry knowledge, the resulting kit offers beauty manufacturers high-performing, on-trend product formulations which can be used as is or as a starting point for their creations. "Guided by market insights revealing that more than two thirds of American makeup users seek multi-functional products, we've meticulously curated formulations that honor the diverse spectrum of beauty through effortless, yet multifaceted essentials. This new collection is the latest of our Spark Inspiration series, that are aimed at accelerating our beauty customers' innovation pipeline," said Sebastien Massard, Global Director Strategic Marketing, Personal Care. The collection's hybrid foundations, multi-use blushes and bold lip formulations feature the Company's high-performing ingredients including actives like the BP TRILURONIC ACID A and the STRATAPHIX series; natural oils such as LIPOVOL® GTB and DW JOJOBA OIL; and natural silicone alternatives from the JEECHEM® NDA line. The formulations include Three versatile face products. Fresh Canvas Multi-Use Concealer can be used as a spot treatment to hide blemishes or as a full-coverage foundation. Tinted Zinc Shield is a lightweight tinted moisturizer that also includes an SPF-30. Hydrating Tinted Face Oil offers a buildable finish and can be applied on its own or worn as a primer before adding concealer or foundation. Blush Duo to bring a pop of color and help create a cohesive makeup look. Color Sculpt Trio is presented as a stick formula that glides on smoothly and quickly as it's applied. All-Over Glow Blusher can be used to brighten cheeks and eyes, acting as a two-in-one liquid blush. Three formulated lip products that each provide a different finish and benefit. The Hydrating Satin Lipstick is made with hydrating ingredients which offer a rich, creamy formulation. Dreamy Velvet Lip, a bold, matte liquid lipstick, leaves a smooth, lush finish. Plush Fruity Gloss provides a glassy shine leaving the lips feeling full and plump. About Vantage Personal Care Vantage Personal Care is one of the fastest growing and most reliable suppliers of personal care and beauty formulations and ingredients. An agile provider of forward-looking solutions that delight our customers through a responsible portfolio of naturally derived products, Vantage Personal Care focuses on skin, hair and sun care and color cosmetics. Vantage Personal Care serves its customers with formulation troubleshooting, new product development, and alternative sourcing solutions and on being the fastest developer of new product concepts in sensorial textures, skin health & delivery systems, and natural oils.

Read More

Chemical Management

Lummus and RWDC Announce Agreement to Accelerate and Scale PHA Production

prnewswire | September 12, 2023

Lummus Technology, a global provider of process technologies and value-driven energy solutions, and RWDC Industries, a biotechnology company developing biopolymer material solutions, announced a binding Joint Development and Commercial Cooperation Agreement (JDCCA) to rapidly expand manufacturing and global licensing of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). In April, Lummus and RWDC signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to cooperate on global PHA deployment initiatives. "This agreement highlights Lummus and RWDC's strong commitment to addressing plastic waste and the carbon footprint associated with conventional plastics production," said Leon de Bruyn, Lummus Technology's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Our partnership in this innovative space aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting our ongoing dedication to developing technologies that accelerate the use and availability of eco-friendly plastics." "We look forward to the value that will be created in combining Lummus' expertise with ours to improve people's lives and health by making PHA polymers and resins available at large scale," said Dr. Daniel Carraway, RWDC's Chief Executive Officer. "It has always been our goal to develop sustainable materials that benefit every living thing on the planet, and this partnership is a monumental step in that direction. Lummus' and RWDC's decision to work together is an exciting development toward making it possible for more people to benefit from natural materials while preserving resources and our environment for future generations." RWDC uses plant-based oils, including post-consumer or waste cooking oils, to produce its proprietary Solon™ PHA, which can be organically recycled or composted in home and industrial composting facilities. Products or packaging made with PHA that find their way into the environment, therefore, will fully biodegrade in soil, fresh water, and marine settings, preventing persistent plastics and microplastics from accumulating in the environment. Articles produced with PHA also can be recycled, re-used or returned to the carbon cycle by way of organic recycling or composting systems. Lummus' interest in pursuing this partnership is testament to RWDC's attractiveness to licensors, due to its demonstrable technology innovation and technical capabilities; commercial value proposition and unit economics; and existing global brand partnerships that continuously validate market demand. RWDC is uniquely positioned as the only PHA manufacturer in the market to provide scalable and cost-effective biopolymer production and first- and best-in-class formulation capabilities and guidance on conversion for product development. Licensing and technology development through its forthcoming partnership with Lummus further enhances RWDC's position as a market leader. Moreover, Lummus' polymer expertise, illustrated through its Novolen® polypropylene technology, highlights a commitment to innovation and sustainable solutions in polyolefin technology to drive transformative change within the plastics industry. About Lummus Lummus Technology is the global leader in developing technology solutions that make modern life possible and focus on a more sustainable, low carbon future. We license process technologies in clean fuels, renewables, petrochemicals, polymers, gas processing and supply lifecycle services, catalysts, proprietary equipment and digitalization to customers worldwide. About RWDC Industries Founded in 2016, RWDC Industries is a biotechnology company that utilizes natural processes to produce materials for use in our daily lives. RWDC develops innovative, cost-effective biopolymer material solutions, including Solon™ PHA, a fully biodegradable and environmentally safe material that can replace plastic in a wide range of applications from single use articles to consumer goods or food packaging to non-wovens and textiles. RWDC supports sustainable practices and encourages responsible choice in plastic waste management, including recycling, to protect our environment and planet. Its global headquarters is in Singapore and operational headquarters is in Athens, Georgia.

Read More

Events