SIBUR begins constructing Russia’s largest catalyst plant, advancing domestic polymer innovation and enabling full-cycle petrochemical material development.
SIBUR has officially commenced the construction of Russia's largest catalyst production facility, marking a strategic advancement in the country's petrochemical innovation landscape. This cutting-edge complex will be pivotal in establishing a full-cycle development process for modern synthetic materials—from initial laboratory research to full-scale industrial production.
Catalysts play a crucial role in the petrochemical sector, being essential in approximately 90% of production processes. They are particularly critical in the synthesis of base polymers, where they influence both the fundamental chemical reactions and the resulting properties of the finished materials. According to Oksana Kostomarova, a leading expert in the polyolefin synthesis laboratory at the SIBUR Innovations research center, the precise structure of a polymer can be manipulated down to its tactile qualities. For instance, polyethylene can be engineered to be soft enough for food packaging or rigid enough for gas tanks, all depending on the catalyst used. The requirements vary by industry: strength and thinness are key in packaging, while biocompatibility is essential in medical applications, and thermal and impact resistance are necessary in automotive manufacturing. “Catalysts act like a chemical-level programming language,” said Kostomarova, emphasizing their foundational impact on performance, safety, and efficiency.
The first phase of construction will focus on facilities for producing chromium-based catalysts, widely used in the manufacture of film and blown polyethylene products such as bottles and fuel tanks. These catalysts are already integral to operations at Kazanorgsintez, ZapSibNeftekhim, and will be deployed at the upcoming Amur Gas Chemical Complex. The production of chromium catalysts alone involves an investment exceeding 11 billion rubles, with the launch scheduled for 2027.
Following this, the project’s second phase will involve the development of metallocene catalyst production lines. These catalysts are vital for producing ultra-durable polyethylene, like the kind used in pipelines with a lifespan of up to 100 years. The underlying technology for these advanced catalysts was developed by researchers at Moscow State University and is slated for use at Nizhnekamskneftekhim.
Aliya Khusnuriyalova, PhD in Chemistry and expert at SIBUR Innovations, highlighted the company's synergy between fundamental science and industrial application. She noted that SIBUR’s collaboration with academic institutions is driving the creation of high-performance domestic technologies that rival Western standards. Metallocene catalysts, with their exceptionally high activity, allow for precise molecular tailoring of polymers, expanding the range and quality of polymer materials available.
SIBUR's CEO, Mikhail Karisalov, underscored the project's significance, calling it a foundational step in building a comprehensive innovation ecosystem in petrochemicals. The Kazan-based facility will merge scientific research, engineering, and digital innovation to set new industry standards and foster the creation of new markets.
