In this talk, we introduce a systematic methodology and corresponding tools to support the decision-making process for the integration of various improvement options, including new technologies, into existing mature processes as well as new projects. Technological evolution is a continuous process aiming at improving the efficiency, cost reduction, carbon neutrality, and environmental sustainability of process industries, and it is the main reason for the global competition confronting most businesses. Currently, industries are facing a number of challenges including energy costs, greenhouse gas emissions, labor costs, and aging plants and infrastructure. In this talk, we will discuss how to address these challenges via integrating new innovative technologies that can offer enormous opportunities for profitable economic growth of industries.
Dr. Sajjad Ahmed has experience of thirty years in portfolio & project management, project & process design, licensing, technology evaluation, Pre-FEED & FEED, execution of major projects up to $10 billion. His expertise includes feasibility studies, detailed engineering, R/D & process development of new products, manufacturing, budgeting, optimization & process improvement, renewable energy, commissioning & start-up, operations, interface with senior management, and presentation of capital projects to senior management. Specific applied areas of his work include Chlor-Alkali & Derivatives, Ethane Cracker & Derivatives, Methanol, Ethanol, Coals & Biofuels, Chlorobenzene, Butanol, Nanotechnology, Refinery, Utilities, wastewater treatment, CCS & renewable Technologies, and Government Funded (DOD/DOE) Projects. Sajjad is currently working for SABIC as Leader Project Development & Project Advisor to Executive Committee, SABIC Fujian Project, after working for SABIC projects & operations for 15 years at various capacities. Prior to SABIC, he worked for Bechtel as Chemicals Group Head on multiple projects & heading Union Carbide Licensing Group & Project Manager on PTTGC, Ohio. He also worked as Associate Director for PPG Industries, Director of Technology Development & new projects development for Air Liquide / Lurgi, Manager, Project Development & Capital Portfolio Management for Suncor, Canada. Sajjad holds PhD in Chemical Engineering from University of Waterloo & University of Carnegie Mellon. He also holds two masters degrees in Chemical Engineering from University of Waterloo, Canada and in Industrial Engineering (engineering management) from University of Pittsburgh, PA.