The project involves the revamp of existing hydroprocessing assets using a two-stage scheme. This design, combined with Axens’ innovative catalyst solution from the 700 series, powers the Vegan® technology. The unit provides full flexibility to produce either 100% Renewable Diesel (RD) or 100% SAF, depending on market needs. Since operations began a few months ago, the facility has demonstrated stable performance and reliable output.
A key feature of the Vegan® process is its ability to prevent co-production of Renewable Diesel when not required, allowing the focus to remain solely on maximizing SAF output. Unlike traditional systems, this solution achieves 100% SAF mode without requiring an additional hydrocracking stage, reducing complexity and investment costs.
This achievement represents an important milestone for Axens, its partners, and customers. By enabling greater flexibility and efficiency, the company’s technology provides practical solutions to meet the challenges of the energy transition. The approach is less capital-intensive while delivering robust performance, making it suitable for addressing evolving industry demands.
The startup of this SAF unit highlights the adaptability of Axens’ process technology. The ability to shift production between Renewable Diesel and Sustainable Aviation Fuel provides operators with options to respond to changing market conditions. Furthermore, the demonstration reinforces the potential of innovative catalyst systems in enhancing process stability and performance.
Axens emphasized that the successful operation of the new unit illustrates how advanced solutions can accelerate progress toward more sustainable fuel supply chains. The company views this development as a step forward in supporting global aviation in its efforts to reduce environmental impact through increased use of sustainable fuels.
The broader significance of the project lies in its contribution to the ongoing shift toward renewable energy in transport. Aviation, as a critical sector, requires scalable and efficient solutions for decarbonization. By providing a pathway for 100% SAF production within existing infrastructure, Axens offers an option that minimizes investment while maximizing output flexibility.
Through this initiative, Axens strengthens its position as a technology provider in the renewable fuels space. The company’s work with partners and customers demonstrates its commitment to delivering practical solutions that align with the long-term objectives of energy transition.
Overall, the launch of the SAF unit in Asia underscores the potential of combining process revamps with catalyst innovation to achieve high-performance results. It reflects how technological advances can enable efficient production of renewable fuels while offering the adaptability needed to meet market requirements.
