CSIR-IIP Single-Step SAF Technology Explained
India's CSIR-IIP has developed a breakthrough single-step catalytic hydroprocessing method to convert algae oil into jet fuel. Here's how it works.
What is CSIR-IIP?
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research — Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP), based in Dehradun, is India's premier research institution for petroleum and fuel technology. They have developed a proprietary single-step catalytic hydroprocessing method that converts bio-oils into aviation-grade fuel.
How the Technology Works
Traditional HEFA processes require multiple stages — deoxygenation, hydrocracking, isomerization, and fractionation. CSIR-IIP's breakthrough combines these into a single catalytic step:
Algae Oil Extraction
Lipids are extracted from cultivated algae biomass, yielding high-quality bio-oil feedstock.
Single-Step Catalytic Hydroprocessing
The bio-oil enters a single reactor with CSIR-IIP's proprietary catalyst under controlled temperature and hydrogen pressure.
Simultaneous Conversion
Deoxygenation, cracking, and isomerization happen in one pass — producing jet-range hydrocarbons (C8-C16) directly.
SAF Output
The output is ASTM-compliant Sustainable Aviation Fuel ready for blending with conventional jet fuel.
Why This Matters
- Lower capital cost — one reactor instead of multiple processing units
- Higher efficiency — reduced energy consumption and hydrogen usage
- Made in India — indigenous technology reduces foreign dependency
- Scalable — designed for commercial-scale production from the start
Loop Fuels & CSIR-IIP
Loop Fuels is leveraging CSIR-IIP's technology to build a commercial SAF production facility. Our integrated production model combines SAF production with biostimulant extraction, creating a zero-waste biorefinery that maximizes the value of every kilogram of algae.