INEOS Phenol launches Europe’s largest cumene facility in Marl, Germany

INEOS Phenol, a global leader in chemical manufacturing, has officially started operations at its new cumene facility in Marl, Germany. The plant, currently the largest of its kind in Europe, boasts an impressive annual capacity of 750,000 tonnes and a remarkable 50% reduction in CO2 emissions per tonne of product.

Pioneering Sustainable Production

This significant achievement in sustainability is a result of innovative cumene technology combined with unique heat integration techniques at the Marl Chemical Park. The strategic location of the plant, using existing pipeline connections to other INEOS sites and the nearby BP refinery, enhances its operational efficiency. Furthermore, the facility’s design includes the utilization of waste heat for a district heating circle, further decreasing its environmental footprint.

INEOS Phenol commissions Europe’s largest cumene facility in Marl, Germany. Photo courtesy of INEOS.

Cumene’s Role in Healthcare and Cleaning Products

Cumene, a key raw material in phenol and acetone production, is essential for various medical and cleaning products. Its derivatives find applications in numerous everyday items, including aspirin, throat lozenges, contact lenses, and dental products. INEOS Phenol, as the world’s largest producer of phenol, acetone, and consumer of cumene, reinforces its commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing with this new facility.

Collaboration with CAC Engineering GmbH

The construction of the plant was undertaken in partnership with CAC Engineering GmbH, following an EPCM model. CAC’s role encompassed FEED verification, detail engineering, procurement, construction, and pre-commissioning activities. The successful completion of this project not only stands as CAC’s largest engineering assignment but also a testament to the effective collaboration between INEOS Phenol and CAC.

Hans-Juergen Bister, Operations Director for INEOS Phenol, emphasized the significance of the new facility, “The unit strengthens our European Phenol position in terms of feed-stock supply and helps to reduce the carbon footprint of the business.”

Mike Niederstadt, Managing Director of CAC, highlighted the project’s impact, “This is a flagship project for CAC, representing not just a milestone in our history but also our outstanding partnership with INEOS Phenol.”

The launch of INEOS Phenol’s new cumene facility marks a major step in the chemical industry’s journey towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly production processes.