Biofuel producers

Syngas production 

A mixture of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H₂), syngas is the primary feedstock for producing synthetic fuels. It is obtained either by gasifying biomass (for advanced biofuels) or by combining green hydrogen with recycled CO₂ (for e-fuels). 

Biomass gasification is a heat-intensive process. This heat is often generated by burning a portion of the syngas produced, which reduces the net syngas output. Blue Capsule proposes to supply this heat—delivered as hot air at 700°C and steam—to maximise the value of biomass, which will become increasingly scarce in the coming years. 

To achieve complete gasification, a temperature of 940°C is required. Supplying heat at 700°C increases syngas production by 16% to 23% for the same amount of biomass consumed. The steam requirement varies depending on the moisture content of the feedstock, ranging from 1.6 to 2.6 tonnes per hour for moisture levels between 10% and 20%. 

Blue Capsule can also produce syngas via electrolysis by providing high-temperature steam or electricity to solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC). For further details, see the dossier on hydrogen production. 

Fuel Conversion  

Through the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis process, syngas is converted into "drop-in" liquid fuels such as diesel, kerosene, or synthetic gasoline. These fuels are directly compatible with existing engines and infrastructure without modification.  

Although the Fischer-Tropsch process is exothermic, both the main reaction and auxiliary processes require significant amounts of steam to power turbines, which in turn drive pumps and compressors. This steam supply is a direct "Plug-In" application where a Blue Capsule unit could replace fossil-fueled boilers.