Total Petrochemicals start 600,000 mtpa revamped styrene unit in France

22-Jan-09

Total Petrochemicals have recently started a revamped styrene* unit at its petrochemicals facility in Gonfreville-l'Orcher, near Le Havre, France. With capacity expanded by 210,000 mtpa, the 600,000 mtpa unit will be one of the largest in Europe, delivering superior performance, especially in terms of energy efficiency. Due to the plant's new reactors, the styrene unit's energy efficiency has augmented by 30%, thereby reducing carbon emissions from styrene production processes by a similar percentage. The unit's start-up is part of the industrial restructuration project launched by Total Petrochemicals in France in spring 2007 to combat expected economic challenges. Central to this plan, Total Petrochemicals' styrene business in Europe has been rescaled and consolidated at the Gonfreville complex, resulting in the shutdown of the Carling unit, in France. This reduced overall styrene production capacity by 120,000 mtpa. Project capital expenditure amounted to EUR 320 mln, including EUR 20 mln to adapt the site infrastructure and improve safety and environmental standards.