Argent to start production at new glycerine refinery

Spanish Market: Chemicals, Petrochemicals
03/10/24

Biofuels producer Argent Energy is expected to commence production at its new glycerine refinery in early October, a source told Argus.

The new Argent refinery, which is located at its Port of Amsterdam site, is Europe's largest facility dedicated to producing bio-based, technical-grade refined glycerine. The facility has a production capacity of 50,000 t/yr and will upgrade crude glycerine into 99.7pc technical-grade glycerine to supply the European chemical market, the company said.

Technical-grade refined glycerine can be used in the production of epichlorohydrin, polyether polyol and anti-freeze, among other applications. Additionally, its use as a feedstock for biofuels generation, such as marine fuels, is being studied as it could offer a cheaper alternative to LNG and distillates. The Netherlands has the largest marine fuel sector in the EU.

"Our entrance into the chemical market is driven by our goal to maximise product value and support the circular economy. By upgrading glycerine from our processes into a technical-grade product, we're giving the chemical industry a bio-based option they can confidently use in their own products," Argent Energy chief executive Louise Calviou said.

The glycerine produced in Argent's new facility will be made via the biodiesel production route, with the product being certified under International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) guidelines.

Argent Energy currently has a capacity of 190,000 t/yr for waste-based biodiesel, with sites in Amsterdam and northwest England. The company plans to soon triple biofuel production at its Amsterdam site alone.

By George Barsted and Carolina A. Palma

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