Microchannel Fischer-Tropsch (FT) technology developed by the Oxford Catalysts Group (Abingdon, U.K.; www.oxfordcatalysts.com) has been selected for use in a biomass-to-liquids (BTL) project under development in the U.K. by the U.S.-based company, Solena Fuels Corp. (Washington, D.C.; www.solenafuels.com). Solena was advised by Fluor Corp. on its choice of technology. BTL is a process used to convert waste biomass into high quality liquid fuels that are totally compatible with petroleum-based fuels. The fuels produced via BTL can be used in existing engines and infrastructure.
The project, known as GreenSky London, will convert waste biomass into sustainable jet fuel, and aims to become Europe’s first commercial-scale sustainable jet fuel facility. The leading partner in the project is British Airways, which intends to use the low-carbon fuel to power part of its fleet by 2015.
In addition, Solena has entered into an understanding with the Oxford Catalysts Group to supply microchannel FT units for Solena’s future BTL projects with airlines and shipping companies. These projects include GreenSky California, GreenSky Rome and Greensky Stockholm.