Oman’s Sohar University to get USD3m state-of-the-art laboratory

Sohar, Oman: Officials from Orpic, W. R. Grace & Co. and Sohar University recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the first phase of a three-party collaboration designed to create and sustain a state-of-the-art R&D facility at Sohar University at an estimated cost of over $3 million.

The R&D facility will be equipped with the latest catalyst testing technology, and will employ highly skilled Omani scientists. The advanced catalyst testing techniques utilised in the laboratory will result in a high-quality service with rapid response times for many of the technical requirements of the nearby Orpic refinery. Grace will provide technical support in the training of personnel and, as the world’s leading supplier of FCC catalysts, will assist in knowledge transfer to support Sohar University ‘s research programmes.

The agreement is a result of discussions early in 2014 between Orpic and Grace regarding ways of creating In-Country Value for Oman. Sohar University was then approached and subsequently became an integral part of the partnership.

This initiative underscores Grace’s commitment to the petroleum refining industry in Oman and represents the first step toward long-term cooperation intended to spur more joint activities, technology development, training, and knowledge transfer.

Speaking at the ceremony, Abdullah Al Farsi, Orpic’s Head of ICV, said, “This is a fine example of creating in-country value, a key policy in Oman and one which Orpic wholeheartedly supports. Having access to such a modern laboratory will be of paramount significance to Omani students, and it will be just 20 kilometres away from Orpic’s Sohar refinery, reinforcing the support our refinery teams need to safely and profitably operate our business. The initiative represents excellent technology and knowledge transfer opportunities to Omani scientists as well.”

André Lanning, general manager for Grace in the region, said “We’re excited by this collaboration, which will serve the interests of all three partners. Grace will be able to improve service with a faster response time to its customers in the region thanks to the close proximity of the laboratory to key customers including Orpic. We’re also pleased to further our cooperation with Oman’s oil refining industry as well as ties to the local community in Oman.”

“This cooperation will enhance Sohar University ‘s research and development capability by providing access to world-class expertise in the field of catalysis, as well as bringing skilled jobs to the country,” said Prof Ray Volker from Sohar University.

© Times of Oman 2014

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