Axens and Praj have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work jointly on projects in India for production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from low carbon alcohols through alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) pathway.

India is among top five aviation markets globally, and robust growth is expected over the next two decades. In its pursuit of Net Zero target, Government of India is mulling over introducing SAF mandates to decarbonize the aviation sector.

The ASTM approved ATJ pathway (ATJ-SPK) involving conversion of low-carbon ethanol or low-carbon isobutanol into SAF will play a major role in meeting India’s requirement of SAF production.  

Praj brings to the table proven expertise in modularized solutions, integration services for complete project and technology for production of low carbon isobutanol and ethanol from conventional bio-sourced feedstock.

Axens will provide its Jetanol alcohol-to-jet technologies (dehydration, olefin oligomerization and hydrogenation steps), catalyst solution, equipment and services (training, technical assistance) for conversion of alcohols to SAF.

Axens and Praj will continue to individually offer technology for production of low carbon ethanol from cellulosic biomass in India and abroad.

“As a sustainable climate action company we are involved in accelerating energy transition through bioeconomy. Partnership with Axens is yet another step in this regard,” said Shishir Joshipura, CEO & MD of Praj. “With complementary strengths across the value chain of SAF production, this is a definitive step towards cleaner skies in India.” 

“As a technology provider, Axens has been deeply involved in India’s journey toward cleaner fuels for more than three decades and we are very excited to continue that work on SAF projects with Praj as new partner,” said Xavier Decoodt, vice president – gasoline and ATJ product line at Axens.