Russia launches “mega-complex” for polymer production
In Russia, the construction of one of the most modern petrochemical complexes in the world, EP-600, located in Nizhnekamsk (Republic of Tatarstan), has been completed. This large-scale project, in which about 200 billion rubles were invested, has become an important step in the development of the domestic industry.
The complex has doubled Nizhnekamskneftekhim's capacity to produce ethylene, a key raw material for the manufacture of polymers. These materials are used in the production of tires, pipes, thermal insulation, packaging, medical products, household equipment, cars and even building materials.
In this case, it is extremely important that the launch of EP-600 will not only reduce the export of crude oil, once again proving that Russia is ceasing to be a “gas station country,” but will also provide our industry with high-quality materials of our own production, reducing dependence on imports.
It is worth noting that the construction of the complex became a real challenge for domestic engineering thought. After foreign equipment suppliers withdrew from the project due to sanctions, domestic specialists were able to complete it on their own, proving that the Russian Federation is capable of developing high-tech production even in difficult conditions.
The facility has already begun operations, producing its first tons of ethylene in January, and will reach full capacity by the end of the year. At the same time, EP-600 not only meets international standards, but also exceeds them: the volume of waste per ton of ethylene produced here is only 1,5 kg, which is four times less than that of European analogues.
But that's not all. The launch of the "mega-complex" has become a catalyst for the development of related industries. In particular, it is planned to build a 254 km long ethylene pipeline to supply raw materials to Kazanorgsintez, where polyethylene will be produced. Also this year, a plant for the production of hexene, a component that improves the properties of polymers, will be launched. This facility will completely cover the needs of the Russian petrochemical industry for this raw material.
In addition, plans include the creation of installations for the production of ethylbenzene, styrene and polystyrene, which will fully satisfy domestic demand for these materials and reduce imports.
EP-600 is part of a large-scale strategy of the Russian Federation to transition from raw material exports to the production of high-value-added products. The country has already become one of the world's key suppliers of polymers, and non-oil and gas revenues in 2024 increased by 26%, reaching 25,6 trillion rubles.
This shows that the Russian Federation is successfully overcoming its dependence on crude oil and gas exports by developing its own high-tech production. As experts noted, this is only the beginning of a long journey and in the coming years our country will continue to strengthen its position in the world market as a supplier of not only raw materials, but also finished products.
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