MACT Application Effect in Petrochemical Industry to Minimize Benzene Fugitive Emission

Abstract

In this study, MACT (Maximum Achievable Control Technology) application effect was evaluated for minimization of benzene fugitive emission in petrochemical industry. Although fugitive emission for benzene in the nation was regulated by the Clean Air Conservation Act from 2015, the US EPA already has introduced MACT standard to minimize its emission with up-todate technology since 1995. EPA Emission Factor (AP-42) and EPA MACT Standard Guideline were used to assess MACT application effect. As a result, For MACT application it could reduce benzene emission up to 98% (average) comparing with uncontrolled facility, while the national regulation could achieve about 95% (average) reduction which is slightly lower than MACT. However there is no control measure in the national regulation to reduce benzene emission for vessel loading even though MACT standard requires preventive facility such as VRU (Vapor Recovery Unit). For further reduction of benzene emission, it needs to be mandatory for operation of VRU when benzene product is loaded in vessel. These efforts could contribute to achieve the global level for benzene emission management in national petrochemical industry.

Environmental Health Studies in the Korean National Industrial Complexes (EHSNIC): Focus-Group Interviews

“…The major outcome of EHSNIC was the construction of a database based on continued studies. While some said the EHSNIC reduced civil complaints and directly or indirectly helped improve the environment, many said the decrease in civil complaints was mainly due to the advanced environmental control system [15], changes in production industry type [16], and the use of alternative substances and clean technologies [17]. Hence, that was not mentioned as an EHSNIC’s outcome.…”