Sebacic Oman has started construction on a $63m plant to produce sebacic acid in Duqm, central Oman, according to local media reports.

The project, which is expected to be completed within 18 months, will have the capacity to produce 30,000 tonnes a year (t/y) of the chemical for export.

Sebacic acid is used in the manufacture of lubricants, adhesives, plasticisers, engine coolant and engine oil, and is also used as an intermediate for aromatics, antiseptics and painting materials.

The facility, located in the Port of Duqm, will be the first such plant in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region. The vast majority of global sebacic acid production occurs in China.

Sebacic Oman is an Omani-Indian joint venture.