After carrying out the necessary preparatory measures, and checking communications, systems and software, Kamet Steel has successfully put the process equipment into operation. Currently, the metallurgical plant’s specialists are producing the first marketable benzene.

In 1825, English scientist Michael Faraday accidentally discovered benzene by isolating it from the condensate of luminous gas produced by coal carbonisation. At the time, no one could have imagined that this clear liquid would become a revolutionary raw material that is indispensable to modern industry.

The chemical industry uses this product to make paints, solutions, synthetic rubber and plastics. It also has applications in pharmacology and can be used as an additive to fuel, among other uses.  It is produced at Kamet Steel’s coke and chemical recovery shop.

Last year, Metinvest implemented an investment project to modernise the equipment of the benzene-scrubber department. It helped to significantly reduce electricity consumption, which is especially important during the energy crisis that Ukraine is experiencing because of the massive shelling by the Russian Federation. In addition, the shop specialists were able to increase the production of high-quality benzene.

Moreover, the building in which the benzene department is located is currently being repaired as part of a reconstruction project at the coke and chemical recovery shop. It houses pumping units, various process equipment and communications to the benzene column. The main goal of the repair is to improve reliability and safety of the building, where the shop staff works on a shift basis.  It houses pumping units, various process equipment and communications to the benzene column. The main goal of the repair is to improve the reliability and safety of the building, where the shop staff works in shifts.