Emissions in Petrochemical
Manufacturing
(Petro-)chemical facilities handle complex processes like cracking, reforming, polymerization, reacting and distillation all of which generate a wide range of gaseous emissions. Typical pollutants from petrochemical plants include:
- • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from storage tanks, leaks, vents, and process units
- • Sulfur Compounds (H₂S, SO₂) from sour gas processing or catalytic units
- • Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) from high-temperature combustion
- • Particulate Matter (PM) from flaring or fluidized bed units
- • Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) from fuel combustion and off-gas streams
Why Treatment is Necessary

Petrochemical facilities are heavily regulated under EU Industrial Emissions Directive (IED) and BAT standards. Non-compliance results in fines, shutdowns, or environmental liabilities.

Toxic compounds like benzene, toluene, and H₂S pose major risks to workers and nearby populations. Gas detection and abatement are essential for safe operations.

Odorous gases, especially sulfur-based, can cause public backlash and social license loss especially near industrial zones.

Carbon-based emissions (CO, CO₂, unburned hydrocarbons) increasingly fall under emission cap-and-trade or carbon tax regimes, making reduction economically necessary.

Hydrocarbon-rich environments require strict control of fugitive VOCs and combustible gas zones to maintain ATEX safety compliance.
Technology options for emission control
BM Process offers customized emission control solutions for renewable energy and biogas operations:
Thermal Oxidizers (RTO, TO, CatOx)
Destroy high-VOC and CO streams through high-efficiency combustion with heat recovery options.
Scrubber Systems (Wet / Dry)
Remove SO₂, H₂S, or acidic gases using water-based or chemical absorption techniques.
Flare Optimization & Enclosed Flares
Control emergency and routine flaring events with safer, low-visibility, and low-emission designs.
Activated Carbon Units
Adsorb VOCs, HAPs (hazardous air pollutants), or odorants at tank vents, loading bays and other smaller process venting points
Integrated Engineering &
Emission Control Expertise
At BM Process, we combine in-depth knowledge of emission abatement technologies with full-scope engineering services—process, piping, mechanical, electrical & instrumentation (E&I), and automation.
Whether you need a targeted emission control retrofit or a full plant upgrade, we work from concept to commissioning. Our holistic approach ensures optimal integration with your existing systems while minimizing operational costs and external energy dependence.
Our Services
Consultancy & Compliance Advice
Pre-Engineering & Feasibility Studies
Basic & Detailed Engineering
Owner’s Engineering and Project Support
Clean air. Efficient systems. Smarter operations.
Contact information
BM Process Management B.V.
Broekstraat 6
5292 ND – Gemonde
The Netherlands
E: hello@bmprocess.nl
WhatsApp: +31 6 42173663
Call Us: +31 6 42173663
Trade register: 77214579
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