Thar Technologies, Inc. announced funding to develop green, biodiesel technology. The green and cost-efficient technology will be based on Thar’s expertise in high pressure processing, known as supercritical fluid technology. Initial funding was obtained through a $2 million grant from the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Advanced Technology Program.
"Advanced Technology Program awards have been aimed at encouraging private industry to develop innovative for national benefit," said Marc Stanley, director of the NIST program responsible for managing the ATP award to Thar. "If Thar Technologies is able to improve the efficiency of biodiesel fuel production, they are helping the nation to meet its energy independence and environmental protection goals."
Despite biodiesel production increasing in recent years, inefficient, pollution-prone processes using hexane, an EPA-designated hazardous air pollutant, to extract oil from oilseeds inhibit biodiesel from becoming a serious alternative to conventional diesel fuel. Thar will replace hexane with high pressure carbon dioxide.
Dr. Lalit Chordia, CEO of Thar, said “Thar’s green technology requires less energy per unit of production and integrates several post-extraction steps into one continuous, efficient process. Cost-effective biodiesel for mass production is finally on the horizon.”
Successful development of the technology will profitably produce biodiesel directly oilseed feedstock while reducing energy consumption and eliminating environmental hazards and the need for production subsidies. The by-products of this technology also have a higher value, making the process very competitive and efficient.
“There is no time to waste in securing America’s independence from foreign oil,” said Congressman Jason Altmire. “Increasing our investment in the research and development of alternative fuels will help bolster our national security, protect our environment, and boost our economy. The funding Thar Technologies is receiving today will help this company increase America’s energy security by devising a more energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly way to produce biodiesel. Supporting cutting-edge research like this is key to creating new jobs and keeping western Pennsylvania at the forefront of innovative technology.”
Thar Technologies delivers environmentally-friendly supercritical fluid solutions to the pharmaceutical, foods, and chemicals industries. Supercritical fluid technology replaces traditional solvent-based processing by harnessing the power of one of nature's most common elements, carbon dioxide.