Shell Catalysts & Technologies and Australian-based biotechnology company Licella have formed a new upgrading technology collaboration to develop a low-carbon, integrated solution for converting biomass into advanced biofuels. This initiative aims to unlock a new value chain for the production of low-carbon fuels, addressing growing global demand for sustainable energy solutions, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The collaboration combines Shell Catalysts & Technologies’ hydroprocessing technology and expertise with Licella’s Cat-HTR (Catalytic Hydrothermal Reactor) technology, an advanced form of hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) that converts biomass into low-carbon biocrude. Shell’s technology will upgrade this biocrude into a refined, low-carbon fuel. As part of the agreement, and assuming successful development, Shell Catalysts & Technologies will be the exclusive global upgrader for the biocrude produced by Licella’s owned and operated units.