Russia: Petrochemicals Zap Sib Neftekhim's Polypropylene Unit Produces First Granules

On completion of the work at Zap Sib Neftekhim, polypropylene production at Sibur’s facilities in Tobolsk is expected to total 1 mtpa. With this capacity, it is expected to become one of the largest in the world and hold the biggest production capacity in Russia.

Tobolsk/Russia – The polypropylene unit at Zap Sib Neftekhim, a deep hydrocarbon conversion plant under construction, is 99.8 % complete. Construction and installation works on the process unit are over, and commissioning is underway. In particular, systems are undergoing functional testing and safety systems are being checked for proper performance.

During commissioning, the unit produced a pilot batch of polypropylene granules from third-party feedstock. The technology enables production of all polypropylene types that enjoy demand in all market segments.

After the launch of Zap Sib Neftekhim, polypropylene production at Sibur’s facilities in Tobolsk (including the existing polymer production facility of Sibur Tobolsk) will total 1 mtpa. This represents the biggest production capacity in Russia and one of the largest in the world.

Zap Sib Neftekhim’s polypropylene will be used to manufacture a wide range of polymer goods, from medical products and personal hygiene items to geo-textiles, hot water supply pipes, containers and packaging.

Overall, Zap Sib Neftekhim will play an important role in substituting 85–95 % (depending on the product) of current polymer imports – mainly from China and Europe.

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