The deadline for bids on a carbon black chemicals plant in Abu Dhabi has been delayed by two weeks, according to a source close to the bidding process.

Project owner Abu Dhabi Oil Refining Company (Takreer) has pushed the closing date for engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) bids back to 9 May from 23 April.

There are thirteen contractors prequalified to bid for the estimated $200m contract, which covers the construction of a carbon black plant at Takreer’s refining complex in Ruwais. It also includes an integrated delayed coker unit and hydrogen processing facilities.

The project has already been delayed several times due to technology licensing and design problems.