Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

Digital Transformation in Chemicals

Adoption of AI, IoT, and digital tools to optimize chemical manufacturing, supply chains, and R&D, enhancing efficiency and innovation.

Recent developments

AI-driven operations

The WEF named Siemens' Nanjing factory a Lighthouse for digital twins and AI, with 78% shorter lead times and 28% lower emissions. AI-powered autonomous operations at its Ruwais facility were completed by Borouge with Honeywell, indicating up to 20% efficiency gains and lower downtime and costs. Equinor saved USD 130 million with AI, and ADNOC’s SARB Deep Gas Development will use AI and remote operations. INEOS installed a BICHLOR electrolyser at Chemfab Alkalis to cut energy use and improve reliability.

Digitalized biomanufacturing

Genentech expanded investment in its Holly Springs manufacturing facility to $2 billion, aiming to produce next-generation metabolic treatments using advanced biomanufacturing, automation, and digital tools. WuXi Biologics introduced the PatroLab digital twin platform with real-time PAT and predictive models for QbD and real-time release. NVIDIA and Eli Lilly launched an AI co-innovation lab linking wet and dry labs via BioNeMo and digital twins. Organizationally, Ercros' new Information Systems Director reflects emphasis on secure, modern data and systems.

AI-enabled R&D

Aspect Biosystems and Novo Nordisk advanced a collaboration on cellular diabetes therapies, integrating select Novo Nordisk R&D and manufacturing capabilities into Aspect’s platform alongside equity and research funding. Genmab and Anthropic will deploy custom Claude-based tools with guardrails to streamline data processing and documentation in clinical development. UBE and Tohoku University launched a co-creation institute for materials in life sciences, environment and energy, and electronics, with a focus on talent development.

Strategy and positioning

Brand and strategy signals emphasize AI-centric positioning. ADNOC's brand value rose 11% to $21.13 billion, with AI innovation, diversified growth, and decarbonization cited by Brand Finance. At subsidiary level, Borouge’s AIDT program targets $575 million in value from AI and digital projects. Together with remote operations, factory recognitions, and bioprocess twins, these moves indicate continued digital transformation across upstream, midstream, and processing.

Keep track of digital transformation in chemicals
Use chemXplore Analytics