Biocatalysis

One final player in the hydrocarbons as biofuels derby: UOP, the Des Plaines, IL-based venerable petroleum-cracking catalyst developer. UOP is actually owned by Honeywell, but for its biofuels work, partnerships have been initiated with Albemarle Corporation and the US DARPA (US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency). The product development efforts are focused on Green Diesel and Renewable Jet Fuel.

Developing cracking catalysts to convert biofeedstocks, such as oil from plants and algae, into green diesel is well within the scope and capabilities of UOP. Working under a $6.7 million contract from the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), UOP is also developing technology to produce renewable JP-8 jet fuel for military aircraft. UOP’s technology produces a renewable jet fuel that meets key jet fuel specifications including a freeze point at -47 ^oC and a flash point of 38 ^oC- making it a promising fuel solution.

As with some other companies, the only thing “bio” about UOP’s work is the feedstock; the process appears to be entirely based on inorganic catalysts, as one would expect from a company that has made its reputation developing these to crack petroleum. I would bet on UOP to be a survivor in the space, if there are any survivors.