QatarEnergy and Chevron Phillips Chemical marked the initiation of construction for a groundbreaking $6 billion integrated polymers complex situated in Ras Laffan Industrial City, Qatar. The event, graced by His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, saw the ceremonial laying of the foundation stone. Dignitaries from QatarEnergy, CPChem, Chevron U.S.A. Inc., and Phillips 66 Company joined in the celebration.
Spanning 435 acres, the project site will host an ethane cracker boasting a capacity of 2,080 KTA of ethylene, positioning it as the largest in the Middle East and among the world’s largest. Additionally, two high-density polyethylene derivative units, totaling 1,680 KTA capacity, will be incorporated.
Bruce Chinn, President, and CEO of CPChem, commented, “This endeavor aligns with CPChem’s strategic vision to expand into regions with dependable and plentiful feedstock, catering to the global demand for polyethylene products. Our collaboration with QatarEnergy reflects our shared commitment to safe and efficient petrochemical operations, marking a significant milestone in establishing these world-class assets in Qatar.”
Employing state-of-the-art, energy-efficient technology, the facility aims to minimize greenhouse gas emissions intensity compared to counterparts worldwide. The polyethylene units will utilize CPChem’s MarTech™ loop slurry process, primarily targeting export from Qatar.
Polyethylene finds extensive application in packaging sectors for various consumer goods like household cleaners, personal care items, food, and medical supplies. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in manufacturing durable and recreational products such as kayaks and coolers.
The joint venture, with CPChem holding a 30% stake and QatarEnergy owning 70%, is spearheading the project development. CPChem will oversee project management services, including engineering, procurement, and construction, with site preparation commencing in June 2022 and startup anticipated by late 2026.
CPChem and QatarEnergy already boast a successful track record in Qatar with three joint ventures – Qatar Chemical Company Ltd., Qatar Chemical Company II Ltd., and Ras Laffan Olefins Company. Furthermore, the collaboration extends to the construction of a similar integrated polymers facility in Orange, Texas, through their joint venture, Golden Triangle Polymers.
