European Chemical Industry News & Insights

INEOS Phenol Opens Europe's Largest Cumene Plant, Halves CO2 Emissions

At a glance
  • The 750,000 tonne plant in Marl, Germany, reduces CO2 emissions by 50% per tonne.
  • The facility uses existing pipeline connections and the Marl harbour waterway.
  • Cumene is essential for producing phenol and acetone, used in medical and other applications.
  • The project was managed by CAC Engineering GmbH under an EPCM model.

Facility Overview

INEOS Phenol has commenced production at Europe's largest Cumene facility in Marl, Germany. The plant has a capacity of 750,000 tonnes per year and achieves a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions per tonne of product. This reduction is made possible through advanced cumene technology and unique heat integration at the Marl Chemical Park.

Strategic Location

The facility benefits from existing pipeline connections between INEOS’ phenol and acetone production sites in Gladbeck, the Evonik Chempark in Marl, and the BP refinery and cracker complex in Gelsenkirchen. Additionally, the site is well-positioned near the Marl harbour waterway, facilitating efficient logistics. Most of the waste heat from the plant is utilized for district heating, further reducing the site's carbon footprint.

Importance of Cumene

Cumene is a critical raw material for producing phenol and acetone, which are used in a wide range of applications, including medical products such as aspirin, throat lozenges, and sprays. Derivatives of these chemicals are also used in contact lenses, artificial joints, dentures, and dental fillings.

Project Management

The plant was constructed in collaboration with CAC Engineering GmbH, which managed the project under an Engineering Procurement and Construction Management (EPCM) model. CAC's responsibilities included FEED verification, detailed engineering, procurement, construction, and pre-commissioning of the plant.