Motiva announced today that it has advanced its aromatics project by executing a license for Honeywell UOP's aromatics technologies and is now undertaking engineering and design work. The project, planned for construction at Motiva's Manufacturing Complex in Port Arthur, Texas, will develop a world-scale aromatics unit to produce benzene and paraxylene, which are key building blocks for medical supplies, fabrics, and many other products common to daily life.

"The demand growth for petrochemical feedstocks is expected to continue to outpace that of gasoline and diesel, and assessing opportunities to expand our product portfolio is essential for addressing the world's future energy and petrochemical needs," said Jeff Rinker, Motiva President and CEO. "I'm pleased to announce that Motiva has begun the capital work necessary to expand our chemical footprint to enable Motiva to be an integral part of this growing market."

Rinker added that a final investment decision on the aromatics project will be dependent on final economics and regulatory approvals.