SABIC Joins Tripartite Agreement for Ethylene Glycol Production Decarbonization

In a strategic move towards decarbonization, Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC), in conjunction with Scientific Design (SD) and Linde Engineering, has formalized a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This collaborative initiative aims to explore opportunities to decarbonize SD's ethylene glycol process, with a focus on innovative solutions that significantly reduce the carbon footprint and usher in low-carbon emissions technology.

The heart of this collaboration lies in leveraging SABIC's cutting-edge CO2 recovery and purification technology to enhance glycol production plants licensed by SD. The overarching goal is to establish sustainable ethylene oxide (EO) and ethylene glycol (EG) production processes that set industry benchmarks for carbon-neutral practices.

Central to this initiative is the integration of SABIC's CO2 Capture and Purification technology into EO/EG production processes. By capturing and purifying CO2 emissions emitted during production, the collaborative effort aims to minimize the environmental impact of these crucial industrial processes. SABIC's proprietary CO2 technology demonstrates the capacity to recover and purify up to 500,000 metric tonnes (MT) of CO2 annually. This significant capability addresses the environmental challenge posed by CO2 emissions during ethylene glycol production, preventing their release into the atmosphere.

An essential aspect of this initiative is the potential conversion of captured CO2 into valuable products, such as urea, methanol, and liquefied CO2. This not only serves as an effective means of carbon utilization but also aligns with the principles of a circular economy by transforming emissions into valuable resources.

The collaborative approach between SABIC, SD, and Linde Engineering reflects a shared commitment to advancing sustainable practices within the chemical industry. By incorporating state-of-the-art technology, the partners aim to revolutionize ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol production, ushering in a new era of environmentally responsible and carbon-neutral industrial processes.

The significance of this collaborative endeavor extends beyond individual companies, signaling a broader industry shift towards greener and more sustainable practices. The commitment to reducing carbon emissions and optimizing resource utilization positions this initiative as a trailblazer in the ongoing global effort to combat climate change and foster sustainable industrial development.

The signing of the memorandum of understanding between SABIC, SD, and Linde Engineering marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of decarbonization within the chemical industry. By harnessing SABIC's advanced CO2 recovery and purification technology, the collaborative effort seeks to redefine the benchmarks for ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol production. This initiative aligns with broader global objectives of achieving carbon neutrality and underscores the transformative potential of collaborative endeavors in addressing complex environmental challenges. As these industry leaders pave the way for sustainable practices, the ripple effect is likely to inspire similar initiatives across the chemical sector, fostering a more resilient and environmentally conscious industrial landscape.