The CNIM group (Constructions Industrielles de la Mediterranee) will be the project’s general contractor. Air Liquide, a partner on this project, will supply key technologies needed to transform synthesis gas into biofuel.
Air Liquide engineering and construction teams are responsible for coordinating some of the technical engineering operations and process steps downstream, from gasification through final biofuel upgrading. Air Liquide will also provide oxygen and hydrogen. Oxygen is a required component of the gasification process, and hydrogen is used to enhance the quantity and quality of the synthetic fuel produced.
The demonstration unit, which combines in a single facility all of the various second generation biofuel production elements, is said to be the first production unit of this kind in France.
Francois Darchis, senior vice-president of Air Liquide, said: “We are delighted to have been entrusted by the CEA and the CNIM group to provide the technological expertise for this demonstration project based in France, which represents a significant step forward in the development of biofuels. This project is in line with the Group’s approach to sustainable development. Energy and the Environment are two growth drivers for the group.”
