ExxonMobil, Sabic will build Gulf coast cracker

ExxonMobil and Sabic will proceed with construction of a new 1.8mn t/yr ethane cracker north of Corpus Christi, Texas, after receiving final environmental regulatory approval.

The cracker, set to be the world's largest, will feed two polyethylene units and one monoethylene glycol (MEG) unit, ExxonMobil said. Construction for the $7.3bn complex will commence in the third quarter, with the startup slated for 2022.

The 50/50 joint venture between the two companies, called Gulf Coast Growth Ventures, is expected to create more than 600 permanent jobs with salaries averaging around $90,000/yr, and an additional 6,000 jobs will be created for its construction. Four companies will lead the project construction: The Wood Group, McDermott & Turner Industries Group, Chiyoda & Kiewit, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries & Zachry Group.

ExxonMobil and Sabic created their GCGV joint venture in May 2018. The project dovetails with both ExxonMobil's "Growing the Gulf" initiative and Sabic's 2025 Strategy. The complex will produce materials used in the manufacturing of coolants, packaging, construction materials and clothing.