Aramco expanded digital-by-default execution across capital programs via two frameworks: Worley’s five‑year PMC framework with Aramco mandates AI, AR/VR, digital twins, robotics, and secure data standards in engineering delivery, while Fluor’s PMC long‑term agreement with Aramco spans pre‑FEED through construction with digital project delivery and local workforce development. These models formalize data-centric EPCM for upstream, downstream, petrochemicals and infrastructure, aiming for schedule certainty and replicable quality across portfolios.
Operational AI advanced at refineries. APC digital control at Petromidia recalculates optimal settings every minute, raising high‑value yields, enabling 98% utilization, and lowering the Energy Intensity Index. Lifecycle support from Axens and Egyptian Refining Company extends from studies to long‑term optimization, targeting reliability, flexibility and environmental performance at ERC’s Cairo complex. Together, these moves underscore closed‑loop control and vendor-enabled analytics as levers for yield, energy, and compliance.
SkinNexus Collag3n developed with Physical AI used an AI-driven biofoundry to screen over 2,000 fragments, pairing discovery with manufacturability and yeast fermentation scale‑up for personal care actives. Beyond R&D, thyssenkrupp and GlobalLogic’s Physical AI alliance integrates a unified data layer with autonomous robotics to connect OT/IT and automate hazardous inspections and engineering workflows. In fiber-based materials, Metsä Group’s collaboration with Qutwo applies next‑gen AI to optimize converting lines and multi‑variable wood procurement.
Industrial decarbonization featured automation-first builds and long-term offtake. Siemens as automation partner for Ucaneo DAC standardizes controls, simulation, and modular templates for electrochemical capture and Germany’s first DAC‑with‑storage project. The ADNOC–INPEX 15‑year LNG SPA for Ruwais anchors a clean‑power LNG plant applying AI for safety, efficiency and emissions. Complementing these, UKAEA and Eni’s RH3OVA joint venture offers digital process models and services for the deuterium‑tritium fuel cycle.
AkzoNobel halved Scope 1–2 emissions four years early, driven by renewable electricity, electrified heat at Pilawa, and customer tools such as the Interpon Eco+ Cure energy calculator. Building-level and industrial upgrades in Italy will be aggregated under EIB financing for Italgas, where the ESCo’s proprietary technologies include in‑house AI to optimize energy use, PV integration, and lighting modernization.
Bioprocess manufacturing expanded regulatory‑grade capacity. ANVISA GMP certification for WuXi Biologics facilities enables commercial anti‑PD‑L1 production across drug substance, fill‑finish and packaging, adding to a globally inspected network. For coatings, organizational readiness also evolved as BASF Coatings names Executive Committee, including a Chief Digital and Information Officer to build standalone cloud, data, analytics, AI and cybersecurity capabilities.
