Today, the centre's 110 scientists, engineers, technologists and support staff are primarily engaged in developing and improving lubricating oils and specialty products, carrying out crude oil analyses and providing technical support to Imperial's refining, marketing and distribution operations. Sarnia researchers continue to develop unique and desirable properties to differentiate Esso products in the marketplace. Sarnia's achievements continue to keep pace with industry requirements. New engine designs are creating more demanding conditions for engine oils, and Sarnia researchers are reformulating Esso engine oils to satisfy higher quality and performance standards. New technologies to reduce environmental emissions and improve site remediation are also being developed at Sarnia.
Advanced research requires advanced facilities, and the centre has some of the best.
The centre was also the first industrial laboratory in Canada to install a high-resolution tandem mass spectrometer, used to determine the type and concentration of a wide variety of molecules in complex mixtures. Imperial has scientific research agreements with ExxonMobil petroleum and petrochemical affiliates worldwide that provide mutual access to technology. An external technology network is maintained through linkages with universities and industry and government research alliances. All rights reserved.