Conoco selected Fluor to develop its revolutionary petroleum-based carbon fiber. The product has unique applications in the electronics, composite materials, plastics, automotive, construction, transportation and other niche markets.

We provided support on an as-needed basis during front-end loading (FEL)-1 and 2 of the design. In 1997, Fluor was awarded FEL-3. Upon the timely completion of front-end design, Fluor continued with the project and completed detail engineering and procurement.

The process challenges included the processing of chemicals at high pressure and temperature, and design as well as development of unique material handling systems.

Operation of an 8-million-pounds-per-year manufacturing plant began in the second half of 2001 in Ponca City, Oklahoma.