Supply chain information technologies that can help shape profitability and increase efficiency of petroleum companies are presented.

The technology for recovering and using unconventional heavy oils is discussed. Emphasis is given to the Alberta Oil Sands in Canada and the Orinco Belt in Venezuela.

The chemistry, process technologies, and production economics for various approaches of boosting propylene production at refineries are assessed. Technologies include ZSM-5 additives, modified FCC approaches, olefin metathesis, and C4/C5 olefin cracking.

The impact of new stringent environmental regulations on refineries and refining processes is assessed.