- NextChem Tech will execute a technological assessment and a process design package to upgrade the existing sulphur recovery unit of the HAOR complex in Baku
  - In addition, NextChem Tech will provide the licensing and the process design package within the frame of the second phase of modernization project in Haydar Aliyev Oil Refinery based on its proprietary NX SulphuRecTM technology for a new sulphur recovery unit to reduce the environmental impact of sour gases
  - These awards confirm MAIRE's role as a reliable partner in Azerbaijan's downstream development, a relationship that began with the first project in 2015

MAIRE announces that NEXTCHEM (Sustainable Technology Solutions), through its subsidiary NextChem Tech, has been awarded by SOCAR two contracts to upgrade and expand the capacity of the Heydar Aliyev Oil Refinery (HAOR) industrial complex in Baku, Azerbaijan.

NextChem Tech will conduct a technological assessment and deliver a process design package to upgrade the existing sulphur recovery unit (SRU) with oxygen enriched air, a cost-effective and flexible solution for expanding the current sulphur production capacity. Additionally, NextChem Tech will provide the licensing and the process design package based on its proprietary NX SulphuRecTM technology for a new SRU and outstanding recovery efficiency.

NX SulphuRecTM is a comprehensive portfolio of proprietary sulphur recovery technologies, based on the integration of modified claus[1] and tail gas treatment[2] processes, which represent the most effective and widely used sulphur recovery configuration worldwide. These solutions are aimed at reducing the environmental impact of acid and sour gases produced during the refining process. MAIRE leverages on a leading position and a strong track record in this segment, having successfully applied this technology in hundreds of projects worldwide.

Alessandro Bernini, CEO of MAIRE, commented: “These awards confirm the mutually beneficial relationship with SOCAR to develop Azerbaijan’s natural resources transformation activities. We are eager to further support the upgrade of the Baku HAOR complex with our technologies that ensure the highest environmental standards.”

[1] The modified claus process typically begins with the combustion of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) to form sulfur dioxide (SO2) and water. This reaction is followed by a series of catalytic reactions where SO2 and H2S react to form elemental sulfur and water.

[2] The tail gas treatment process follows the modified claus process and aims to treat the tail gas, which contains small amounts of unconverted H2S and SO2

About Maire

MAIRE S.p.A. leads a technology and engineering group that develops and implements innovative solutions to enable the Energy Transition. We offer Sustainable Technology Solutions and Integrated E&C Solutions in nitrogen fertilizers, hydrogen, circular carbon, fuels, chemicals, and polymers. MAIRE creates value in 45 countries and relies on over 8,300 employees, supported by over 20,000 people engaged in its projects worldwide. MAIRE is listed on the Milan Stock Exchange (ticker “MAIRE”).

About SOCAR

SOCAR is one of the leading international energy companies. In order to ensure the economic interests of the Azerbaijani people, SOCAR is a major operator and participant in a number of transnational projects across the country and abroad. The company is active in all the oil and gas industry value chains. Exploration of oil and gas fields, production, processing and transportation of oil, gas and gas condensate constitute the main part of the operations of SOCAR. SOCAR also exports natural gas, oil and petrochemical products to the country's market, as well as international markets. The company's goal is to become a vertical integrated international energy company with advanced experience in the field of effective operation, social and environmental responsibility. As an important EU energy supplier, SOCAR plays a special role in the sustainable economic development of Europe.