Synthesis of Bio Jet Fuel from Crude Palm Oil by HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids) Using Ni-Mo Catalyst Supported by Rice Husk Ash-Based SiO2

Bio jet fuel becomes one of the feasible solutions for jet fuel inadequate supply in Indonesia. However, study in this field by far has been limited. In this study, bio jet fuel was synthesized from Crude Palm Oil (CPO) by Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acid (HEFA) facilitated by Ni-Mo/SiO2 catalyst, in which the support was derived from rice husk ash. The study focused on investigating the influence of catalyst-CPO mass ratio and temperature of the catalytic process. Experimental works consisted of silica-based catalyst preparation via impregnation method, followed by sample assessments. Catalytic reactions were conducted at 20-50 bars, with temperature of reaction 300°C and 400°C. Catalyst performance were evaluated from crystallinity, composition, and activity in the reaction. Catalyst characterization shows an amorphous structured with high dispersion of Ni-Mo in rice husk ash have been produced. The HEFA process successfully obtained bio jet fuel (C10-C15 hydrocarbons) with yield and selectivity of 45.17% and 45.46%, respectively. Overall, a systematic approach shows rice husk ash has potential to be developed as a catalyst support for bio jet fuel production from crude palm oil.