Singapore-based ChemOne Group is set to revolutionise the petrochemical industry with its Pengerang Energy Complex (PEC) in Malaysia, thanks to its adoption of Honeywell UOP’s LD Parex technology. This innovation is expected to reduce operating expenses by up to 40% and capital expenses by up to 20% when the plant becomes operational.
Alwyn Bowden, CEO of Pengerang Energy Complex Sdn Bhd, highlighted the shift in the global refining industry from fuel to petrochemicals, stating, “Refineries have been under increasing pressure to adapt and power profitability and efficiency.” The PEC will be the first plant outside China to utilise this advanced technology, which is projected to save $120 per metric tonne of paraxylene produced.
Paraxylene, a key component in polyester and plastics, is in high demand, particularly in China, which accounts for 60% of global consumption. With global demand expected to grow by 5.32% annually, generating $52.92b by 2031, PEC aims to meet this demand whilst reducing its carbon footprint.
The UOP LD Parex technology employs an advanced adsorptive separation process, replacing heavy desorbents with a more efficient light desorbent, toluene. This change simplifies fractionation units, significantly cutting both CapEx and OpEx. The technology also supports ChemOne’s sustainability goals by minimising emissions and utility consumption.
In the coming months, PEC plans to finalise project financing and begin construction in Pengerang, Johor, Malaysia, marking a significant step forward in sustainable petrochemical production.
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