The 2024 International Refining and Petrochemical Conference (IRPC) brought together innovators, leaders, and delegates from the downstream industry to discuss the industry’s latest advancements and solutions. It was a dynamic forum where industry experts explored strategies to achieve a sustainable and efficient future in refining and petrochemical operations. With a strong focus on decarbonization, digitalization, and circular economy initiatives, the conference highlighted the progress being made in addressing the industry's challenges.
Shell and LyondellBasell set the tone for the conference on Day 2 with their keynote presentations. Shell shared insights on downstream project data, highlighting hydrogen, renewables, and LNG's role in a greener future, while also addressing safety concerns around high temperatures and pressures during catalyst start-ups. On the other hand, LyondellBasell shared their ongoing efforts to advance the circular economy through mechanical and advanced recycling, aiming to produce and market recycled and renewable-based polymers by 2030. This proactive approach aims to tackle the alarming plastic waste production expected to triple by 2060 without changes.
Dr. Ghoncheh Rasouli from KBC presented on the "Next Generation of Olefin Production: Emission and Energy Efficiency." With a focus on decarbonization, she highlighted the role of advanced simulation capabilities using Petro-SIM® in optimizing plant operations. Ghoncheh emphasized the importance of the IP3EM framework, showcasing how integrating process energy, emissions, and economics offers a holistic approach to performance and sustainability, as shown in Figure 1. Her presentation concluded with innovative strategies for emission reduction and digitalization, laying the groundwork for more efficient and sustainable olefin plants.
During the conference, Muhammed Ahmed, Principal Architect of Digital Value Assurance at OQ, shared his valuable insights on "The Process Control Journey: Advanced Process Control." Shown in Figure 2, he explained how OQ enhanced operator efficiency and productivity with KBC technology, which stabilized system variables, reduced standard deviation, and improved control over interconnected processes that boosted overall efficiency.
IRPC demonstrated the industry's commitment to a sustainable future and the significant strides being made in refining and petrochemical operations. The use of advanced simulation tools and real-time data, guided by expert knowledge, has become crucial for these companies across the hydrocarbon value chain that aim to thrive in an eco-friendly world while Bringing Decarbonization to LifeTM.