Axens (Rueil-Malmaison, France; www.axens.net) has signed an agreement with PKN Orlen for Vegan Technology License and Process Book Supply for the production of renewable diesel and jet fuel, through hydrotreating of vegetable oils in its Płock Refinery in Poland.
Based on a flexibility to operate either on diesel mode or kerosene mode, the new unit would be capable of producing hydrotreated vegetable oils (HVO) for true drop-in high quality biofuels for diesel or jet fuel. This project falls into a commitment to address today’s environmental regulations entering the low-carbon energy sector in downstream while ensuring diversification of feedstock.
“Investing in new technologies is among PKN Orlen’s strategic objectives. Renewable energy sources are gaining prominence in transport. The RED II Directive, which raises targets for the use of next- generation biofuels, will have a major impact on the fuel market in the future. By investing in environmentally-friendly solutions in advance, we will be well positioned to meet the ambitious E.U. targets,” says Daniel Obajtek, president of the PKN Orlen Management Board.
Vegan technology is able to hydrotreat a wide range of lipids and to produce low-density and high-cetane renewable diesel, as well as renewable sulfur-free jet fuel. Backed by fifty years of experience in middle distillates hydrotreatment and hydrocracking/hydro-isomerization, Vegan technology is using catalysts manufactured and provided by Axens.
The scope of Axens’ work includes the supply of process books, catalysts & adsorbents, proprietary equipment, training and technical services.