Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) is capitalizing on shale gas opportunities in the US by modifying its cracker at Teesside, UK, into a gas cracker.

The cracker upgrade to using shale gas-based feedstock is scheduled to be completed during 2016, and is expected to result in long-term, reliable supply of cost-competitive products.

Yousef Al-Benyan, SABIC executive vice president, chemicals, commented: “This project reflects SABIC’s strong determination to take advantage of cutting edge technology in creating new sources of competitive feedstock and energy that will allow the company to continue to build a sustainable business and deliver on its long-term vision. Our long-term focus is to have a business that stays profitable not only in the European region, but across our global markets.”

The cracker conversion will allow SABIC to use its existing facilities to produce olefins and their derivatives more competitively. These products are essential building blocks for materials used in items such as packaging products to protect food, health care products, automotive and building and construction parts.