The Role of Artificial Intelligence Development in the Petrochemical Industry
Subject Areas :parsa motaghi 1 * , mehrnoush mohammadi 2
1 - Department of Chemical & Polymer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering , South Tehran Capus, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
2 - Department of Chemical & Polymer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering , South Tehran Capus, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Petrochemical, Economic Analysis,
Abstract :
As a cornerstone of the global economy, the petrochemical industry has constantly grappled with challenges such as highly complex chemical processes, soaring energy costs, and the critical need to maintain safety in hazardous environments. However, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies is fundamentally reshaping traditional management and control paradigms across the sector. This paper examines the transformative role of AI in optimizing production processes, driving product innovation, implementing predictive maintenance, streamlining supply chains, enhancing operational safety, and automating intelligent decision-making. Beyond establishing a theoretical framework, this study analyzes how these technologies are applied by leading global corporations as well as their counterparts within the Iranian petrochemical industry. Furthermore, it adopts a critical lens to evaluate the technical dimensions, implementation hurdles, and economic feasibility—specifically cost-effectiveness and return on investment (ROI)—of deploying these advanced systems compared to conventional methods. Additionally, the impact of these technologies on mitigating operational fluctuations, extending equipment lifespan, and minimizing human errors is explored. The findings indicate that while integrating AI demands substantial upfront investment in both infrastructure and specialized talent, the long-term reduction in operational costs and boost in productivity make it an indispensable requirement for maintaining a competitive edge in global markets
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