Japan’s First Trial of Biodiesel from Rice Bran Oil Byproducts Launches at Yamagata Airport
Japan Airlines Co., Ltd., Showa Sangyo Co., Ltd. Boso oil and fat Co., Ltd., Phytochem Products Inc. and Tohoku University have jointly announced the commencement of a demonstration project at Yamagata Airport. This project uses biodiesel fuel (hereinafter “BDF”) produced from byproducts generated during the rice bran oil manufacturing process, to power one of JAL’s airport ground support equipment (baggage towing tractor).
This BDF is produced by Boso oil and fat (a member of the Showa Sangyo Group) by upcycling rice bran fatty acid (a non-edible oil) generated during rice bran oil production. The manufacturing process utilizes the “Ion Exchange Resin Method” (*2), a technology developed by Tohoku University. This initiative marks the world’s first use of BDF produced utilizing “Ion Exchange Resin Method” at an airport.
Roles of Each Company
Background and Objectives
Yamagata Airport was selected for this demonstration due to its location in a basin, which creates significant seasonal temperature fluctuations ideal for testing under diverse weather conditions. Additionally, its proximity to Tohoku University, where the core technology was developed, provides an optimal environment for verification.
As global demand for biofuels increases, it is crucial to explore new resource possibilities and diversify raw material options to ensure a stable supply. (*3) Through this project, the five-company consortium aims to promote the decarbonization of Yamagata Airport while establishing a sustainable supply chain and social implementation for BDF derived from upcycled byproducts. By utilizing advanced technology from the Tohoku region, the partners are committed to creating new value and achieving a carbon-neutral future.
More information is available on the Japan Air Lines website.
