Chevron Lummus Global LLC (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. “The results also underscore the flexibility and scalability of our technologies and how they help customers maximize the value of their assets while achieving their sustainability goals.”
Testing involved the co-processing of 1,000 tons 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. Earlier this year, CLG and Neste announced their progress in developing technology to produce sustainable fuels from lignocellulosic biomass.
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.
INA plans to complete all preparatory activities to be ready for the continuous market supply of sustainable aviation fuel by 2029.