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2007 Archive
Browse through the 2007 archive
Spring 2007 - Featured articles
Playing to our strengths
Ben van Beurden was appointed Executive Vice President of Shell Chemicals Ltd. at the end of last year. Here, he outlines why he believes that being part of a major energy company brings a significant advantage in the new global economy.
Off the rails
An innovative trial in the UK is testing the feasibility of using panels made from recycled rubber and a polyurethane binder to turn disused railway lines into rush-hour relief roads. The scheme has the potential to both help reduce urban traffic congestion and offer a solution for dealing with used tyres.
Going with the flo
The oilfield sector has evolved from a specialty niche to a significant global market for NEOFLO* alpha internal olefins, due to their environmental credentials in offshore drilling. The business has responded by manipulating its SHOP (Shell Higher Olefins Process) technology to increase capacity of oilfield chemical grades.
Storage standards
Measures developed by Shell for controlling the polymerisation of styrene monomer during storage have been incorporated into industry standards. The guidelines are key to ensuring safety, and maintaining product quality, at storage facilities.
Trading places
Shell is among a number of international companies licensed to trade chemicals in the Chinese domestic market for the first time. Following the successful startup of the Nanhai joint venture last year, the establishment of a wholly-owned marketing operation in China is another key step in increasing Shell's presence in the fastest growing chemical market.
Technology for tomorrow's world
Carl Mesters is the Shell Group's Chief Scientist for Chemistry and Catalysis, and one of a team of experts created to drive Shell's investment in technology and innovation. Here, he explains the importance of continuous innovation to improving existing chemical processes and unlocking new hydrocarbon resources.
Mixed wash
Changing market economics and environmental perspectives have a significant influence on the debate over petrochemical- versus oleochemical-derived surfactant intermediates used in laundry detergents. Major players in the industry, meanwhile, continue to recognise the importance of having both feedstocks in their product supply chains.
Solvent solutions to VOCs
Improving air quality by addressing the formation of ground level ozone, or smog, is a major public policy issue around the world. A new approach in the US, supported by the solvents industry, offers scope for improvements in areas where control of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) is key to reducing ozone concentrations.
