Abstract

• The global push toward net-zero depends on moving sustainable fuel and chemical technologies beyond the laboratory into commercial reality — yet the journey from bench-scale discovery to full deployment is rarely linear.⁠‌​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌‌‌​​‌‌‌​⁠ It is defined by scientific, engineering, and economic hurdles that decide whether a promising process reaches the market or stalls in development. This seminar addresses the multi-scale challenges of scaling sustainable processes, drawing on practical experience in piloting and commercializing renewable fuel and chemical pathways.
• The presentation defines the key performance indicators required at each scale — catalyst activity and selectivity at the bench, mass- and heat-transfer limits at pilot level, and integrated unit-operation and process economics at commercial scale.⁠‌​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌‌‌​​‌‌‌​⁠Attention is paid to common failure modes emerging between scales: non-ideal reactor behavior, catalyst degradation, feedstock variability, and the underestimated cost of downstream separation.
• Considering the strategies for de-risking deployment:⁠‌​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌‌‌​​‌‌‌​⁠ techno-economic and life-cycle assessment, modular and intensified reactor design, effective pilot-plant operation, and partnerships bridging research, engineering, and industry.⁠‌​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌‌‌​​‌‌‌​⁠ Case studies illustrate how sustainable processes — converting biomass, CO₂-derived feedstocks, or waste streams into fuels and high-value chemicals — have moved from proof-of-concept toward commercial readiness.
• We finally understand both the technical requirements for scaling sustainable chemistry and the integrated framework of chemistry, engineering, economics, and policy needed to deliver real commercial and environmental impact.

Biography

“Mr. Hatem Harraz combines strong academic credentials with extensive work achievements, making him an exceptional candidate to help Aramco achieve its strategic goals. He holds dual Master of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering—one from Auburn University (Alabama, USA) and the other from the University of Salford, Manchester (UK)—along with Professional Engineer licenses in multiple jurisdictions and a formal project‑management certification. This blend of deep theoretical knowledge, professional accountability, and disciplined execution provides a solid platform for tackling complex engineering challenges.

As a recognized subject‑matter expert in scaling transformative energy and process technologies, Mr. Harraz consistently converts R&D innovation into commercial reality. He is the author of several U.S. patents for disruptive carbon‑transformation and gas‑monetization processes, directly creating valuable intellectual property. Notable achievements include:

• Scaling an oxidative‑coupling‑of‑methane process that reduced CAPEX by 40 %.
• Leading an energy‑optimization study that cut plant energy consumption by over 30 %.
• Driving Front‑End Loading (FEL) and FEED stages for key projects, such as an Aramco Clean‑Fuel unit.
• Managing commissioning and startup for demonstration plants, ensuring smooth transition from concept to operation.

Mr. Harraz’s expertise spans emissions capture, hydrogen production, biofuels, and the scale‑up of novel chemical processes—areas that align directly with Aramco’s core objectives for the energy transition. His proven ability to innovate, generate substantial cost savings, and lead complex projects from concept to operation positions him as a powerful asset for delivering immediate, impactful contributions to Aramco R&D’s success.”