Although almost everyone in the chemicals industry considers research and development (R&D) to be the primary engine of innovation and growth, R&D investment has been stuck at about 2.5% of revenue for the last 15 years. If that sounds like…
Substituting nitrogen atoms for aromatic carbon atoms at specific locations within the molecular skeleton of a possible therapeutic agent can have significant effects on molecular properties critical for biological activity, such as hydrogen bonding, polarity, metabolic stability, target specificity and…
New magnetic level indicator completes series A wide range of options have been added to the BM26 Series of magnetic level indicators (MLI) since it was first introduced in 1955. With the recent introduction of the new BM26A-8000, the company…
A process to produce an alternative to palm oil for food applications, developed by scientists at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore; www.ntu.edu.sg), will be scaled up for commercial production through a partnership with Eves Energy Pte. Ltd. (Singapore; www.eves-energy.com).…
Plant Watch Petrobras announces biorefining breakthrough at Riograndense refinery November 9, 2023 — Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. (Petrobras; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; www.petrobras.com.br) has successfully processed 100% soybean oil in a fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) unit at its Riograndense petroleum refinery…
A practical overview on how to use location factors, and some tips on when to use — or not use — them Often in the early stages of project development in the chemical process industries (CPI), the development team is…
Selecting an effective system for controlling air pollution can help to achieve balance between environmental stewardship and industrial productivity Air pollution is an ongoing worldwide concern that impacts people and ecosystems across the globe. The emission of pollutants like particulate…
Achieving regulatory compliance is often viewed as overly complicated or restrictive, but a good understanding of the current regulatory landscape can help fuel business growth and efficiency When talking about modern manufacturing, few sectors experience as much regulatory scrutiny as…
Adhering to API 682 guidelines will create safe, efficient and effective mechanical-seal supports in pumping systems In the 1980s, mechanical seals became the most frequently used sealing technology in petroleum refineries and chemical plants. The American Petroleum Institute (API; Washington,…
Editor's note: The content in the following column is adapted from the following article: Palluzi, R., Leak Prevention in Small-bore Piping and Tubing, Chem. Eng., October 2020, pp. 22–25. The original article can be found here. Leakage can negatively affect…