LG Chem said Monday it is deploying artificial intelligence (AI) across all areas of its business — from quality prediction and process optimization to contract review and exchange rate forecasting. For its battery materials business, the company is building a cathode materials plant in Tennessee, which will open as a smart factory equipped with AI and digital transformation platforms. The new plant will adopt digital technologies that have been used at its mother factory in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, to improve the quality of cathode materials. "AI and digital transformation platforms allow us to automate data collection and prediction modeling," an LG Chem official said. "With regular monitoring and retraining, the system is expected to maintain its accuracy over time." At its petrochemical plant in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, LG Chem introduced a deep learning-based image analysis system to detect abnormalities in the flare stack process and enhance operational efficiency. A flare stack is used to burn off excess gases safely during chemical processing. Last year, the chemical firm launched a citizen data scientist platform, an internal AI analytics tool accessible to all employees, regardless of their coding or data analysis skills. According to the company, around 40 employees unfamiliar with coding used the platform for three months on a trial basis and found over 20 things to improve, including boosting RO membrane output and enhancing battery separator quality. "By using AI to predict the properties of superabsorbent polymers used in hygiene products like diapers, we have optimized the moisture content to make final product processing easier for customers," the company official said. "We are also using digital twin technology to detect issues in regenerative thermal oxidizers and other equipment before problems arise." For nonmanufacturing operations, LG Chem has adopted AI tools that can automatically review and edit contracts. The company is also using AI-powered translation tools that support up to 24 languages for in-house terminology. (Advertorial) (ICE SEOUL)

Fonte notizia: The Korea Times