Process Technology Center
The Process Technology Center in the Production & Technology Center, is located at the three locations of Sodegaura, Osaka and Iwakuni, with each location utilizing its own technologies to modify existing processes, develop new processes, and maintain and improve common fundamental technologies related to processes.
Chemicals
In the field of chemicals, we are enhancing the improvement of the innovative production technologies of various basic chemicals such as phenol, bisphenol-A, and olefin.
For example, phenol is produced using the cumene process. After cumene, obtained from benzene and propylene, is oxidized, acetone and phenol produced through catalytic reaction are separated and then refined by distillation. In the cumene process, reaction precision during the oxidation process is particularly important . Mitsui Chemicals' cumene process, based on its advanced chemical engineering, simulation technology and oxidation reaction analysis, provides phenol that is extremely cost-competitive on the global market.
Pilot plant - fixed bed reactor
Pilot plant - crystallization drum
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Chemical Products
In the field of chemical products, we are conducting research and development related to industrialization of purified terephthalic acid and PET resins for bottles. We are also developing various processes utilizing multi-purpose pilots.
We have the largest domestic share of purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and PET resin for bottles (Mitsui PET), and centers have been established in Southeast Asia for these as we plan to expand these businesses overseas in the future. We are working on the development of processes aimed at improving quality of products to maintain the world's highest level of technology and to coexist with the environment.
Purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) R&D facilities
Labolatory - oxidation equipment
Pilot plant - polymerization reactor
PET bottles
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Advanced and Common Fundamental Technologies
For example, we are working on processes utilizing supercritical fluids with unique properties such as liquid-like dissolving effects and gas-like high fluidity solvency , and the development of green chemistry technologies such as organic synthesis and bioprocesses that reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) by utilizing non-fossil fuels. Furthermore, we are developing compound technologies for adding new functionality by chemical modification and structural control of general-purpose polymers. We are also attempting to increase process yields to the maximum by utilizing advanced simulations and control technologies based on chemical engineering models.
Supercritical fluid reaction system
Simulation
Cultivation system
