One of the largest biodiesel fuel production plants in Japan uses "PURAMEM^®" membrane and has started commercial operation

• Polyplastics-Evonik Corporation has revolutionized biodiesel production with the PURAMEM® membrane process, increasing refining capacity by 17 times compared to traditional distillation methods. 
• The technology enables the production of high-quality biodiesel (FAME) by removing almost all impurities without high-temperature treatment, making the process safer and more cost-effective.
• By partnering with companies such as RITA Corporation and Daiseki Eco. Solution Co., Ltd., Polyplastics-Evonik is promoting renewable energy solutions and contributing to the goals of carbon neutrality and sustainable development.

Solvent-resistant separation membrane “PURAMEM^®” from Polyplastics-Evonik Corporation (Headquarters: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Executive Vice President: Kunio Fukui) has been adopted at biodiesel production plant and mass production has started smoothly.

Last year (2023), in collaboration with our partner company RITA Corporation (Headquarters: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Representative: Yoshiya Kitagawa), PURAMEM^® was adopted by Daiseki Eco. Solution  Co., Ltd., a major domestic biodiesel fuel manufacturer. During the piloting and commissioning, PURAMEM^® had already succeeded in significantly improving productivity compared to existing distillation systems. Even in this mass production phase, it has maintained this excellent productivity, achieving an annual refining capacity of 1,200 kL, which is approximately 17 times higher than that of distillation system. After the decision to adopt the PURAMEM^® membrane, it was introduced into the manufacturing equipment and conducting test operation, the system was successfully launched.

By using the PURAMEM^® membrane in the refining process, almost all impurities can be removed, and achieve very high-quality biodiesel fuel (FAME = fatty acid methyl ester). Furthermore, since no distillation system is used, it is possible to produce products with high yields without thermal decomposition. In addition, the membrane separation method does not require high heat treatment of the fuel, which is more safe and cheaper process without any risk.

Biodiesel is a renewable, biodegradable, alternative fuel to kerosene and is manufactured by transesterification from vegetable oil (or UCO: Used Cooling Oil), animal fats, or recycled grease. As an alternative to mineral-based diesel, it can reduce CO2 emissions and contribute to the implementation of SDGs based on the idea of carbon neutrality. The quality of biodiesel varies depending on the feedstock , and it is important to carry out appropriate pre-treatment processes. In Japan, where biomass resources are limited, UCO is attracting attention as an effective resource for conversion to biodiesel fuel and such business is gradually becoming more popular. And UCO has no impact on food supply and demand.
 

Membrane separation is the most energy-efficient and highly productive system. Aiming for a sustainable society, we will continue to work with our partner companies to contribute to building a sustainable society in the future. Polyplastics-Evonik will continue to provide detailed technical support to our customers.