Chevron Phillips Chemical to build new PAO unit in Belgium

Chevron Phillips Chemical (CPChem) announced plans to expand its polyalphaolefins (PAO) business with the construction of a new unit in Beringen, Belgium. Chevron Phillips Chemical already operates PAO units in Beringen, Belgium, and Baytown, Texas, U.S.A. The new PAO unit will enjoy significant advantages in infrastructure, feedstock availability, and operational expertise. 

Once local permits are approved, this significant investment will double the company’s PAO production capacity in Belgium to 120,000 metric tons (MT) upon targeted startup in 2024. 

CPChem has been a leader in the development of high-quality polyalphaolefins, which are marketed under the Synfluid® brand, for more than 40 years. PAOs are specially designed chemicals made from alpha olefins. They are used in many synthetic products such as lubricants, greases, and fluids and have emerged as essential components in applications including automotive, industrial, cosmetics, technology, and military use. 

“Our Beringen plant has a long history of safe, reliable production of PAOs and of serving our customers with excellence,” said Mitch Eichelberger, executive vice president of polymers and specialties. “The construction of a new unit near our existing assets will allow us to benefit from strong local expertise and leverage Belgium’s central position to meet customer needs globally.”

The growing demand for PAOs is fueled by the performance of these molecules at extreme temperatures, and also by new applications such as electric and fuel-efficient vehicles and heat transfer fluid. 

“Increased production from this new investment will be critical to support growing demand at a time of great innovation in several sectors that require PAOs,” said Antoine Janssens, Europe Africa region general manager.