OMV Petrom comissioned a new aromatics unit at Petrobrazi, following an investment of 140 million euros.
“We are expanding our processing capacity for products that can serve as feedstock for the petrochemical industry, further strengthening the role of the Petrobrazi refinery within the petrochemical value chain. The completion of this project marks a key milestone in the refinery’s modernization journey and delivers on a strategic commitment to optimize the production mix by integrating higher value-added products. At the same time, the project reflects our firm commitment to operational excellence and sustainability, through the adoption of the most advanced technological solutions available”, said Radu Căprău, member of OMV Petrom’s Executive Board responsible for Refining and Marketing.
The new unit incorporates the Best Available Technologies (BAT) and replaces a facility that has been in operation since 1961.
The aromatics unit enables the separation of benzene from gasoline, ensuring the production of high-octane fuels in line with European standards. This investment also expands the production capacity for aromatics such as toluene, a high-value product used as feedstock in the petrochemical industry – in the manufacturing of paints and adhesives. In addition to improving the production mix, the unit contributes to enhancing the refinery’s energy efficiency and reducing its environmental impact.
Following a complex commissioning process, the new unit will enable an increase in toluene production capacity at Petrobrazi by 50,000 tons per year, reaching approximately 100,000 tons per year. The project was implemented safely, in compliance with the highest standards of quality and environmental protection.
OMV Petrom has invested more than EUR 2 billion in the modernization of the Petrobrazi refinery since privatization, focusing on operational efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Currently, the company is developing another major project of approximately EUR 750 million to build a sustainable fuels production unit (SAF/HVO), which will also include a green hydrogen component.