LG Chem deploys AI across all business areas

LG Chem employees examine facilities equipped with smart factory technologies at the company's plant in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, in this undated photo. Courtesy of LG Chem

LG Chem is transforming the way it works by adopting artificial intelligence (AI) across a wide range of areas, from quality prediction and process optimization to contract review and exchange rate forecasting.

For nonmanufacturing operations, the petrochemical company has introduced AI tools that automatically review and edit contracts. It also uses AI-powered translation tools that support up to 24 languages for internal communications.

Last year, the company launched a Citizen Data Scientist platform, an in-house AI analytics tool available to all employees regardless of their coding or data analysis experience.

According to LG Chem, about 40 employees who were unfamiliar with coding participated in a three-month pilot program and discovered more than 20 improvements, including boosting reverse osmosis membrane production and enhancing the quality of battery separators.

“By using AI to predict the properties of superabsorbent polymers used in hygiene products like diapers, we optimized moisture content to make product processing easier for customers,” an LG Chem official said. “We are also using digital twin technology to detect issues in regenerative thermal oxidizers and other equipment before problems occur.”

At its petrochemical plant in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, LG Chem deployed a deep learning-based image analysis system to detect abnormalities in the flare stack process and enhance operational efficiency. A flare stack safely burns off excess gases during chemical processing.

In its battery materials business, the company is building a cathode materials plant in Tennessee, which will operate as a smart factory equipped with AI and digital transformation systems.

The facility will adopt advanced digital technologies used at the “mother factory” in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, to further improve cathode material quality.

“AI and digital transformation platforms allow us to automate data collection and predictive modeling,” the LG Chem official said. “With regular monitoring and retraining, the system is expected to maintain its performance and accuracy over time.” (Advertorial)