Baton Rouge area - our history

during World War II

the refinery: Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC)
The Esso Laboratory and Standard Oil Refinery in Baton Rouge were key players in developing the fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) technology, which literally fueled World War II. The first Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit, PCLA-1, began operation in May 1942 and helped Standard Oil Company of New Jersey affiliates manufacture almost half of the 100 octane aviation fuel produced during the war.

Cat cracked petroleum affects our lives today by providing gasoline and diesel fuel for vehicles, feedstocks for cosmetics, plastics and synthetic fabrics, and heating oil to warm homes.

the chemical plant: butyl rubber
Gas from the fluid catalytic cracking was used in the production of synthetic rubber at the Baton Rouge Chemical Plant. Truck tires and tank treads accounted for much of the war demand for rubber, but soldiers also required about 32 pounds each in rubber gear and accessories.

During the war, our butyl rubber production was considered a major contribution to the victory of the Allies, earning Baton Rouge the title of "cradle of the synthetic rubber industry."

a changing workforce
World War II not only spurred advancements in technology, it also changed the face of the workforce and created a unique culture of patriotism during 1940s. Women had to fill the shoes of men sent off to war. War issues of the employee newsletter, “The Stanocolan,” listed some of the more than 1,000 employees who joined the Allied effort and highlighted women who were some of the Refinery’s and the Chemical Plant’s first chemists, technicians and mechanical drafters.