A memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been signed between Saudi International Petrochemical Company (Sipchem), King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), and the Ministry of Petroleum & Minerals to establish a research center for the development of polymers technologies and applications. Sipchem said in a statement that it will build the center at the Dhahran Techno-Valley at KFUPM on an area of 15,000 square meters at the cost of SR 80 million. Sipchem will also be responsible for the centers management and operation. The center aims at the development of Polymers technologies and applications with particular emphasis on the films used in manufacturing solar cells and the thin films used in agriculture, flexible pipes, adhesives for wood, paper and paints, power and communication cables including fiber optics and any other products that support the national program for the development of industrial complexes. The center shall also enhance cooperation in research through the use of laboratories, equipment and the exchange of experiences between the university and Sipchem. The lease land agreement for the center at the Dhahran Techno-Valley has been already been signed between Sipchem and KFUPM. The center shall be the nucleus for the future expansions and create new communication channels between the universities and the industrial sector. The center is expected to be operational in the year 2012 and shall apply the state of the art technologies and equipment. The center shall be complimentary to other research and development centers in the Kingdom that will reflect positively on Polymers industrial sector in the Kingdom and shall contribute to its continuity through the development of local knowledge through interaction and cooperation with the similar international centers. The rector of the KFUPM said the center is one of indications of enhanced relationship and cooperation between the university and the industrial sector. He also stressed on the role of the Dhahran Techno-Valley in the encouragement of creative thinking with participation of major companies that contribute to the application of technology in the vital sectors such as Petroleum, Gas, Water and Information Technology. He added that the relationship between the University and the industrial sector is positive for both parties and sets a solid basis for an active, creative and compatible application of the latest technologies. These joint efforts will bring the industrial sector closer to the university which is a rich reservoir of outstanding researchers and makes available employment opportunities in the way that supports the economic culture. Ahmad Al Ohali, CEO of Sipchem, said by establishing the research center, the company “will continue its efforts and active contribution for the application of modern technologies and research in the Kingdom in addition to its other active professional and social responsibilities.” He indicated that the center will strive to attract and develop the latest technologies which will enrich the petrochemical industries in general and the polymers in particular. __
