Chevron Lummus Global LLC (CLG) disclosed on June 12, 2024, that its ISOTERRA technology has been selected for a groundbreaking SAF initiative in China. CLG will provide the technology license, engineering services, and specialized equipment and catalysts for this cutting-edge facility.

"We are privileged to contribute to China's sustainability objectives with our established ISOTERRA technology," stated Rajesh Samarth, Chief Executive Officer of Chevron Lummus Global. "Drawing on over 12 years of expertise in lipids hydrotreating and isomerization catalysts, we are confident that ISOTERRA technology will deliver outstanding outcomes for this project and the broader region."

The new renewable fuels plant, starting from scratch, is projected to operate at a capacity of 400 thousand metric tons per annum (KTA). It will process a range of lipid feedstocks, such as oils from plants, fats from animals, and recycled cooking oils, to optimize sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production. Moreover, the facility is equipped to produce renewable diesel, enhancing its operational flexibility.

This initiative will establish the operator as a leading producer of sustainable aviation fuel in the region, aligning with China's dual carbon objectives to reduce emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

To tackle the challenges posed by renewable feedstocks and optimize sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) output, the ISOTERRA unit will employ a distinctive two-stage process. This approach harnesses advanced EnRich® hydrotreating and EnHance™ isomerization catalysts, leveraging Chevron Lummus Global's extensive experience in hydroprocessing.

CLG's innovative ISOTERRA process employs all-hydroprocessing techniques to optimize the production of ASTM-approved renewable diesel or sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This two-step method begins with hydrodeoxygenation of the feed, followed by isomerization to achieve final cold flow property requirements. The isomerization stage utilizes CLG's acclaimed fifth-generation EnHanceTM catalyst. The ISOTERRA process is adaptable for upgrading existing hydrotreaters for renewable applications, offering flexibility for installation in both single and dual reactor setups.

Chevron Lummus Global (CLG), a partnership between Chevron U.S.A. Inc. and Lummus Technology, leads in providing advanced technologies for producing renewable and conventional transportation fuels, high-quality base oils, and sustainable petrochemicals from diverse feedstocks. Utilizing state-of-the-art catalysts and innovative reactor internals, CLG's solutions are engineered to enhance efficiency and flexibility, reduce emissions, and maximize economic benefits.

Lummus Technology was established in 1907 by Walter E. Lummus, driven by foresight, meticulous planning, and entrepreneurial vision. The company's initial office was situated in Boston, alongside a manufacturing facility in Everett, Massachusetts. Early on, Lummus Technology focused on developing process technologies for producing transportation fuels from bio-based feedstocks like molasses. During its formative years, the company manufactured pot stills, condensers, scrubbing columns, caustic soda dissolvers, heat exchangers, and distillation columns.