Research, development and innovation

700 researchers around the world work closely together on the three technological components of polymers: catalysts that act on a molecular scale, processes developed in our pilot plants, and products resulting from the right combination of catalyst and process. This research, conducted in partnership with our customers to help them optimise the use of their products, results in the development of new applications that take environmental protection into account from the very first stages.

As regards innovation, Total Petrochemicals boasts a number of major technological developments in the field of catalysts and bimodal processes, innovations that have made the company a world leader in a number of market segments.

In 2007, in partnership with the biotechnology firm Galactic (the world's 2nd-largest producer of lactic acid and lactactes), Total Petrochemicals launched a research and development programme on polylactic acid (PLA)-based second-generation polymers. PLA is a biodegradable bioplastic produced from sugar or starch.

Total Petrochemicals also started a MTO (Methanol-To-Olefins) / OCP (Olefin-Craking-Process) demonstration unit at its Feluy site (Belgium) in autumn 2008. As methanol can be produced from natural gas, from coal or even one day from biomass, this cutting-edge technology will allow to open new ways of producing polymers from raw materials other than those traditionally used in petrochemicals (naphta, ethane...).

A strong safety culture

Safety in the workplace is one of Total Petrochemicals' priorities. The company's safety policy, based on risk identification, prevention and management, seeks to develop and improve at all times the skills and behaviour of everyone concerned, both Total Petrochemicals employees and contractor personnel working at Total Petrochemicals' sites. This policy is underpinned by constant efforts to enhance the safety of processes and equipment.

Societal responsibility based on dialogue

At all industrial sites, Total Petrochemicals fosters dialogue with all stakeholders. Its «Common Ground» initiative aims to establish a long-lasting relationship of trust between plants and neighbouring communities: residents, local authorities, associations, etc., by bringing all parties together in an effort to understand their concerns and expectations more clearly and brief them on the operation of our production plants.

Managing the environmental impact of our activities

In line with Total Group policy, Total Petrochemicals endeavours to minimise the impact of its activities on the environment. Actions taken in this regard include reducing atmospheric emissions such as greenhouse gases and volatile organic compounds, and optimising energy efficiency within the plants.

Over and above actual manufacturing operations, the company assumes its environmental responsibilities throughout its products' life cycle: from design, choice of raw materials and energy production/consumption to packaging, transport and finally the use of the products through to end-of-life disposal.

 Download the Sustainable development brochure