Process Optimization
Optimize sulfur recovery: Sub-dewpoint sulfur recovery with interstage membrane
The author’s company’s new sub-dewpoint sulfur recovery with interstage membrane (SSRIM) technology is a breakthrough for the sulfur recovery industry, as it is the first technology capable of achieving an overall recovery efficiency of > 99.9% without requiring a tail gas treating unit. This article discusses the basic SSRIM configuration and its advantages when compared to a traditional Claus/TGT configuration.
Optimizing NGL treatment for sulfur and methanol reduction at Pembina NGL Corporation’s Redwater fractionation plant—Part 1
This article details a project that optimized sulfur treatment and methanol reduction at Pembina NGL's Redwater plant in Canada.
Lummus successfully starts up PFAS demo unit to destroy "forever chemicals"
Lummus Technology has started up its per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) destruction demonstration unit. The at-scale, commercial-ready system uses a combination of advanced technology to destroy PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals."
Solvay partners with Cavalinho to reduce emissions at Brazilian chemical plant
Solvay will be one the first companies in Brazil to adopt biofuel-powered trucks for transportation, supporting its goal of cutting scope 3 emissions by 20% by 2030.
Dow Chemical, X-energy to advance nuclear project at Dow's Seadrift chemicals facility (U.S.)
Dow Chemical and X-Energy Reactor Co. announced the submission of a construction permit application to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a proposed advanced nuclear project in Seadrift, Texas (U.S.)
Refractory lining reliability challenges in hydrogen-fueled process fired heaters
This article provides an overview of the potential impact of H2-rich fuel firing on refractory integrity and suggests safeguards to mitigate challenges. While this article discusses refractory issues in process fired heaters, the information presented can be broadly applicable to fired equipment where a flame is present.
Methods for increasing the heat transfer rate on steam condensation surfaces
Traditional systems rely on filmwise condensation for heat transfer; however, for large energy consumers, dropwise condensation will help improve heat transfer efficiency and reduce steam consumption and carbon footprint. This can be achieved through water treatment technologies—specifically the dropwise condensation technology—that help facilities increase productivity and reliability while reducing energy consumption.
Scaling pyrolysis: A critical step toward plastic circularity
Pyrolysis has potential to process hard-to-recycle plastics and expand the scope of recycling, but scaling up pyrolysis to meet global demand remains a significant challenge. From technical optimization to creating market confidence, addressing these barriers is essential if pyrolysis is to reduce plastic pollution and advance circularity.
Uganda signs deal with UAE investment firm over 60,000-bpd oil refinery
Uganda signed an oil refinery agreement with UAE-based Alpha MBM Investments for a 60% stake in a crude oil refinery in Kabaale, Hoima District.
Optimize direct air carbon capture systems for petrochemical sustainability
The advent of direct air carbon capture (DACC) systems presents a groundbreaking opportunity to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) and repurpose it as a valuable feedstock for petrochemical products like methanol and synthetic fuels.
- Indian Oil buys first Colombian oil under Ecopetrol contract 12/31
- Ukrainian drone attack sparks fire, damages equipment at Tuapse refinery 12/31
- Chile's $2.5-B Volta green ammonia project wins environmental permit 12/31
- China begins issuing second batch of 2026 crude import quotas to refiners 12/31
- EIA: U.S. crude, fuel inventories rose in the week ended December 19 12/30
- Ghana's Tema oil refinery restarts after 9-yr shutdown 12/30

