ITS Develops Low-Emission Palm-Based Gasoline to Strengthen Energy Security

Reported by from Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember on Saturday (April 11, 2026), a research team led by Hosta Ardhyananta has successfully developed a palm-based gasoline known as biogasoline (Benwit), derived from crude palm oil (CPO).

The innovation aims to provide a low-emission renewable fuel alternative while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

ITS Rector Bambang Pramujati described the development as a strategic opportunity for Indonesia, particularly amid global energy supply uncertainties driven by geopolitical tensions.

“This is an opportunity for Indonesia to develop alternative energy sources amid fuel crisis concerns,” he said.

The production process utilizes catalytic cracking technology, which breaks down large molecules into lighter hydrocarbons. Initial methods required high temperatures of up to 420°C, but further development using bimetallic catalysts (NiO and CuO) has improved efficiency.

This advancement reduced operating temperatures to around 380°C and increased yield to 83%.

The resulting fuel is dominated by short-chain hydrocarbons (C5–C11), similar to commercial gasoline. Additionally, the process supports a zero-emission concept, as by-products can be reused as energy sources.

Life cycle assessment (LCA) results indicate relatively low carbon emissions, aligning with sustainable energy principles.

The innovation is also expected to support farmers by providing alternative fuel options for agricultural machinery, reducing reliance on volatile fossil fuel prices.