BioFlux™ Technology: Unlocking Feedstock Flexibility for Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Introduction As the global energy landscape shifts toward sustainability, refineries are facing increasing pressure to diversify their feedstock and reduce carbon emissions. Sulzer Chemtech, a global leader in process technology, is at the forefront of this transition with its BioFlux® technology a breakthrough solution for producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel from a wide range of bio-based materials.

The Challenge of Feedstock Variability Just as refineries must adapt to the variability of crude oil, renewable fuel producers must manage diverse and often contaminated bio-based feedstocks. Traditional processing methods struggle with impurities, leading to reduced yields, higher hydrogen consumption, and operational challenges. BioFlux® Pretreatment technology directly addresses these issues, offering a low-CAPEX, low-OPEX solution that removes contaminants and stabilizes operations.

How BioFlux® Works BioFlux® employs a unique reactor design that maximizes volumetric flux and ensures complete mixing of feed and hydrogen. A portion of the reactor effluent is recycled and premixed with the feed, acting as both a diluent and a heat sink. This innovative approach offers several key advantages:

• Higher Liquid Yield: Eliminates overcracking to undesirable products.

• Efficient Hydrogen and Thermal Management: Reduces hydrogen consumption and controls reaction exotherms.

• Lower Capital and Operating Expenses: Uses liquid-only operation, eliminating the need for gas recycle.

• Superior Operational Stability: Extends catalyst life and ensures reliable performance.
  

Sustainability and Carbon Reduction BioFlux® technology stands out for its low carbon intensity compared to other renewable hydrotreating solutions. By maximizing yield, minimizing utility consumption, and utilizing product streams for hydrogen generation, BioFlux® helps producers achieve their decarbonization goals while maintaining profitability.

Feedstock Flexibility and Predictive Insights Just as advanced analytical tools like CrudePLUS help refineries manage crude variability, BioFlux® is designed to handle a broad spectrum of bio-based feedstocks—from used cooking oil to animal fats and distillers corn oil. Sulzer’s expertise extends beyond technology to include comprehensive support, from preliminary feedstock assessment to full-scale implementation.

Conclusion BioFlux® technology is transforming the renewable fuel industry by enabling feedstock flexibility, operational efficiency, and sustainable production. For refineries and fuel producers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and adapt to evolving market demands, BioFlux® offers a proven, future-ready solution.

To learn more about BioFlux® and receive a preliminary assessment of your feedstock, contact us.