In the port area of western Netherlands lies one of ExxonMobil’s most significant European industrial hubs: the Rotterdam–Vlaardingen refinery and petrochemical complex.
An Integrated Refinery
At Rotterdam, ExxonMobil operates a modern, fully integrated refinery that extends far beyond fuel production. The complex houses petrochemical facilities, three chemical plants, and a lubricants plant. This integration enables efficiency gains and a diverse product portfolio.
Base Oil Production
The refinery produces EHC™ 50 and EHC™ 120 base stocks and is the only facility in Europe capable of manufacturing Group II/II+ base stocks at a global scale. These high-quality base oils are essential components in advanced lubricants, widely used across the automotive and heavy machinery sectors.
Energy Efficiency and Modernization
In 2019, the site completed a major technological expansion, transforming it into one of the most energy-efficient refineries in Europe. A key upgrade involved optimizing the hydrocracker process, which allows the production of ultra-clean diesel and higher-quality base oils.
International Quality Standards
The complex is certified under ISO 9001:2015, ensuring consistent quality across operations and products. This certification strengthens Rotterdam’s position as a benchmark for high-standard base oil production.
Innovation and Sustainability
ExxonMobil Rotterdam is actively involved in strategic projects such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and has plans to integrate blue hydrogen into its operations. These initiatives align with the company’s broader commitment to lowering emissions and advancing toward more sustainable industrial practices.
Conclusion
ExxonMobil’s Rotterdam–Vlaardingen complex is not only vital for Europe’s fuel and base oil production, but also serves as a leader in energy efficiency, product quality, and the transition to cleaner technologies. It stands as a strategic landmark in the global energy industry.
My Diary - Leonardo Cardillo 