1. What specific technologies is INVISTA implementing?

John Bloom:

Currently, we have installed mPACT2WO’s continuous VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) sensors, equipped with cellular service and solar power, in areas between our operations and our site property boundary.

mPACT2WO’s VOC sensors, equipped with advanced analytics, are continuous monitors, which, when combined with a meteorological station, provide real-time information for anomaly detection. Unlike EPA’s required monitoring system, mPACT2WO’s solution provides us early warning of emission anomalies based on changes in background concentrations.

Additionally, whereas the EPA’s sampling system will only be analyzed for 1,3-Butadiene at our site, mPACT2WO's VOC sensors detect a broader range of unspeciated VOCs. This capability is beneficial for early detection of potential issues and can effectively augment the EPA-required fence line monitoring. In this way, we are using this innovative technology to improve our knowledge while continuing to operate in a responsible way.

Krishna Uppuluri:

At mPACT2WO, we work closely with INVISTA to transform their operations by enabling real-time anomaly detection and timely fixes through continuous, automated fenceline monitoring. Since our solutions feature advanced hi-fidelity, self-expressive sensors and AI/ML-driven insights they can benefit both operators and overall operations. These capabilities empower boots-on-the-ground personnel at INVISTA to detect anomalies in real-time, gain enhanced situational context, and take timely corrective actions.

2. How is INVISTA managing increased data volume and analyzing it?

John Bloom:

Our environmental team currently monitors the fenceline using the mPACT2WO system. As we approach the go-live date for the EPA sampling systems, we will be finalizing all necessary procedures. The ongoing mPACT2WO pilot program offers an excellent opportunity to learn the system and refine our work processes ahead of the regulatory requirements, ensuring maximum effectiveness. The web and mobile interfaces are intuitive and can be customized to send notifications to specific individuals within the facility.

Krishna Uppuluri:

Our solutions are enabled by AIoT, which transforms large, noisy data into small, actionable insights for operators. By leveraging advanced algorithms and real-time data processing, our AIoT approach enables INVISTA operators to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently, freeing them from the burden of data management. This innovative approach has enabled this chemical manufacturer to not only enhance operational performance but also drive continuous improvement and innovation across industrial sites.

3. How is the technology helping meet new reporting requirements efficiently?

John Bloom:

When the new regulations were proposed, INVISTA began knowledge sharing with refineries already subject to Benzene fenceline monitoring regarding any challenges associated with the EPA fenceline monitoring requirements. One of the challenges was the timeliness of data. The EPA-required sampling systems are passive canisters that are deployed for nominally two weeks and then sent offsite to be analyzed. If there is a high result, it can be difficult to determine the cause of the result, particularly if it is episodic.

By installing the mPACT2WO sensors co-located with the EPA sampling system, it is now possible to determine exactly when and from what direction the emissions are coming. The mPACT2WO solution provides real-time information that identifies a source of episodic emissions, enabling changes in equipment and procedures to significantly reduce emissions. This allows for more efficient investigation and faster responses.

Krishna Uppuluri:

mPACT2WO’s technology focuses on early detection, which enables timely corrective actions. By identifying issues before they escalate, this proactive approach helps industrial sites avoid unexpected and excessive emissions. The shift enhances site safety, ensures compliance, reduces risks and ultimately leads to holistic operational efficiency.

4. What benefits is INVISTA expecting?

John Bloom:

We anticipate additional benefits from implementing the mPACT2WO solution.
First, we expect that the insights from the mPACT2WO solution can be used as part of our emergency/incident response procedures. The solution will provide numerous permanent locations that will provide information regarding whether emissions are heading toward our fenceline in an event. Currently we have a mobile vehicle with that capability that is deployed to drive around the property to monitor for potential impacts. mPACT2WO provides more locations, with continuous data and without tasking an employee to drive the vehicle. Because the EPA sampling data is not real-time (delayed 3-4 weeks due to canister deployment and offsite analysis), it is not useful during an incident response.

Second, once EPA sampling is required, the data from the EPA sampling system will be available online via EPA’s website.

Third, as mentioned previously, the mPACT2WO solution is real-time and detects most VOCs, making it very effective in identifying episodic events and intermittent emission, which will allow the site to improve its environmental performance consistent with our Environmental Stewardship Framework.

5. How did INVISTA integrate new monitoring systems with its existing infrastructure?

John Bloom:

Since this is a new regulatory requirement, there was not an existing system to integrate into. We are incorporating the mPACT2WO system into our new site procedures regarding fenceline monitoring.

As for physical integration, since mPACT2WO offers cellular capability as well as solar power, the sensors can be deployed anywhere – without having to consider the availability of power and Wi-Fi or communication cables.

Krishna Uppuluri:

Existing monitoring infrastructures are often standalone and disconnected. Our automated solution enhances these systems without the need for complex integration to existing infrastructure.

6. What type of training was needed for staff on new technologies and procedures?

John Bloom:

mPACT2WO provided a comprehensive Day One Readiness program, designed to seamlessly integrate training and operational focus right at the start. This program enables us to quickly learn and adopt best practices as part of our daily operational rhythm.

Krishna Uppuluri:

One of the benefits of our operator-centric solutions is that they require minimal training. With intuitive web and mobile interfaces, we eliminate the need for extensive manuals. Field operators utilize configurable alerts, tailored data views and personalized dashboards. We provided comprehensive training on bump tests, calibration, sensor health, trends, alert interpretation and investigation. These tools and training now allow the INVISTA operators to optimize workflow, enhancing productivity and effectiveness.

7. How is INVISTA preparing for future regulations?

John Bloom:

The fenceline monitoring requirement goes into effect in 2026, with the first annual reports due in mid-2027. Currently, the site is working to understand where the optimal location for the EPA required monitors will be. Our Victoria site is large and has areas where several hundred yards separate the processing areas and the site property boundary. We also have other industrial neighbors and tenants.

Placement of the EPA sampling stations will be important to ensure the chosen locations are representative of our operations but do not result in interferences or false readings coming from neighboring facilities or tenants, rather than our operations. This is where the early pilot program with mPACT2WO is expected to be valuable.