First-ever production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and also yielded hydrotreated vegetable oil renewable diesel
Chevron Lummus Global (CLG) announced a successful commercial test for co-processing biogenic feedstocks and fossil feedstocks at INA Group’s Rijeka Refinery in Croatia. Conducted at a CLG-licensed hydrocracking unit, the test marked the refinery’s first-ever production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and also yielded hydrotreated vegetable oil renewable diesel.
“This test-run conducted at INA’s hydrocracker unit, along with several other recent tests by CLG licensees, showcase how our technology can be integrated into customers’ existing infrastructure to co-process a wide range of feedstocks to produce clean fuels,” said Arun Arora, Chief Technology Officer, Chevron Lummus Global.
Testing involved the co-processing of 1,000 tonnes of 5% palm oil mill effluent (POME) feedstock together with fossil-based feedstocks. The process was certified by the independent certification body Bureau Veritas d.o.o., in accordance with the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) standard for sustainable biofuels. The results highlight the adaptability and scalability of these technologies, enabling customers to optimize the value of their assets while advancing their sustainability objectives.
CLG and INA worked closely prior to the commercial test to address the complexity of processing a new type of feedstock with specific physical and chemical properties. The project involved a range of activities, from procuring special filters and adapting laboratory methods, to increasing the capacity of the hydrocracking and vacuum distillation units and ensuring controlled handling of the biogenic feedstock within existing operational conditions.
