Slovnaft invested 63 million in the modernization and expansion of polypropylene production in Bratislava

The annual production capacity for polypropylene, sold under the Tipplen and Tatren brands, has increased by 33 000 tonnes to 300 000 tonnes, boosting production of the most sought-after grades of polypropylene. Slovnaft produces it in approximately 20 grades. The upgrade of the production unit also expanded the storage and logistics infrastructure, adding another 16 storage silos to the original 45. Modifications to the technology have also reduced emissions, while modern safety measures for the logistics infrastructure have improved worker safety.

“The modernisation and expansion of polypropylene production at Slovnaft confirm the course set by MOL Group, which aims to gradually reduce fossil fuel production in favour of increasing the production of basic plastics. The investment strengthens Slovnaft's position among the leading modern petrochemical plants in the European region,” emphasises Gabriel Szabó, MOL Group's Vice President for Downstream.

Slovnaft's PP3 polypropylene production unit is currently in trial operation, during which the technology is being fine-tuned and performance and quality tests are being carried out. “The results so far meet all the expected parameters,” says Michal Hušek, the project manager for the PP3 upgrade at SLOVNAFT, a.s., adding that the company expects approval from the authorities for permanent operation by the end of this year.

Slovnaft began analysing the market and conducting feasibility studies back in 2015. The investment decision was made in September 2021. Preparation of the project documentation began in summer 2022 following the signing of a contract with the supplier, the German company Linde Engineering. The upgrade itself began in September 2023 and was completed at the end of 2024. “Most of the work was carried out while the production unit was operating, which was extremely challenging, and we had to adopt strict safety measures. Thanks to these, but above all to the responsible approach of all workers, we did not record any accidents or injuries,” explains M. Hušek.

Polypropylene is produced at Slovnaft in the form of granules the colour of milk glass. It is used in the food, textile and furniture industries, in the production of laboratory equipment, nonwoven fabrics, containers for food or cosmetics, toiletries, and also, for example, toys.

The investment confirms MOL Group's 2030+ Shape tomorrow strategy, which calls for reducing fossil fuel production and increasing the production of basic plastics. In 2024, SLOVNAFT Group invested the largest amount in its history in the maintenance, modification and modernisation of its production facilities – 330 million euros.