Axens LPI License for S-Oil Reaches FID; Start-up Q2 2027
- Project has reached Final Investment Decision.
- Unit to be installed at Aromatics Complex #1 with start‑up scheduled for Q2 2027.
- Scope includes the technology license, process design package and technical services to support execution and start‑up.
- LPI technology (owned by ExxonMobil, licensed by Axens) targets increased paraxylene supply, improved energy efficiency and reduced emissions by optimizing liquid/vapor isomerization balance.
Project milestone
A license agreement between S‑Oil and Axens was signed in late 2024 and the project has now reached Final Investment Decision. The isomerization unit will be installed at S‑Oil Aromatics Complex #1 and is scheduled to start up in Q2 2027.
Scope and delivery
Axens’ scope covers the technology license, the process design package and technical services to support project execution and start‑up.
Expected benefits
The partners aim to enhance aromatics complex performance with improved energy efficiency and reduced emissions. The project is intended to help meet growing demand for paraxylene while contributing to improved energy efficiency across the petrochemicals operations.
Technology background
The Liquid Phase Xylene Isomerization (LPI) technology is owned by ExxonMobil and licensed by Axens and has been implemented in several aromatics complexes worldwide. The technology benefits from ongoing catalyst and process optimizations and, by balancing liquid‑phase and vapor‑phase isomerization units, is reported to deliver substantial energy savings across the xylenes loop and improve complex economics.
Source: Axens
