Why Pongamia Oil from Elite KESSLER Varieties Is Ideal for the HEFA Process and SAF Production

In this post, we would like to address whether Pongamia oil, particularly the oil derived from our elite genetic varieties, could soon become one of the most desirable feedstocks for the HEFA process and SAF production.

As mentioned in our previous posts, there is significant genetic diversity in the Pongamia tree, and the oil obtained from these varieties differs in its physicochemical properties. In addition, not every genetic variety is suitable for cultivation in degraded and desert soils.

As is well known, HEFA technology is becoming the leading technology for the most efficient SAF production. Demand for SAF is driven by the fact that the aviation industry is one of the highest CO2-emitting sectors and requires urgent action to reduce these emissions. The technology for producing SAF already exists. However, the challenge remains the availability of the right feedstock, with stable quality and supply, for the HEFA process.

So why KESSLER Pongamia oil is an ideal feedstock for SAF production using HEFA technology?

1. First of all, KESSLER plantations are grown in degraded and desert areas, with no conflict over the use of agricultural land for fuel purposes.

2. Our Pongamia oil is inedible, which means there is no food-versus-fuel conflict.

3. Our oil has excellent physicochemical properties and chemical composition for the hydrogenation process:

4. Over 80% unsaturated fatty acids, primarily oleic acid C18:1, which is ideal for hydro- processing in the HEFA process.

5. Minimal sulfur content, approximately 3 ppm.

6. Low FFA content, at 0.7%.

7. Suitable unsaponifiable matter content for the HEFA process.

   
   

Therefore, the SAF yield from our Pongamia oil is expected to be among the highest, comparable to that of soybean oil. However, unlike soybean oil, Pongamia oil from our plantations is inedible and therefore qualifies as an advanced feedstock.