petrochemie

Petrochemie, or petrochemistry, is the branch of the chemical industry focused on converting petroleum and natural gas into basic chemicals and a wide range of derived products. It covers the generation of feedstocks such as ethylene, propylene, aromatics, and methanol, and their transformation into plastics, synthetics, solvents, resins, and specialty chemicals. The field underpins many consumer and industrial products and interacts closely with refining and gas processing.

Core processes include steam cracking of hydrocarbon feedstocks to produce olefins, followed by catalytic transformations such as cracking, reforming, alkylation, and oxidation. Common feeds include ethane, propane, naphtha, and natural gas liquids. Advances in catalysts and heat integration aim to improve efficiency and yield, while integrating with refining reduces energy use and waste.

Major products are ethylene and propylene, which are precursors to polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, and many elastomers. Aromatics such as benzene, toluene, and xylene serve as solvents and as feedstocks for plastics and fibers. Other streams include methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen for fertilisers, coatings, and specialty chemicals.

Industry structure varies by region, with integrated complexes linking refining and petrochemical units. Regions with large gas-based feedstocks include the Middle East and North America, while naphtha-based production is prominent in Europe and parts of Asia. Environmental considerations focus on energy intensity, emissions, plastic waste, and the shift toward recycling and sustainable materials. The field continues to evolve with new catalysts, process intensification, and circular economy strategies.