Nestled near Rosario, Argentina, Evonik’s Puerto General San Martín site stands as a beacon of sustainability in the biodiesel industry. This facility, dedicated to the production of sodium methylate, plays a crucial role in transforming natural raw materials into biodiesel—a cleaner, renewable alternative to conventional diesel.
At the core of the plant’s operations is sodium methylate, a liquid catalyst essential for converting natural oils into biodiesel. This biofuel can be seamlessly blended with petroleum-based diesel, powering engines with a reduced carbon footprint. By utilizing natural raw materials, such as vegetable oils and animal grease, the biodiesel produced there contributes significantly to lowering atmospheric CO2 levels, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change.
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»We are actively exploring the transition to green electricity, despite the current challenges in Argentina's renewable energy market. «
Lisandro Costa Site manager of the plant in Puerto General San Martín
COMMITMENT TO CIRCULARITY AND CO2 REDUCTION
“Fuels are used in engines, and I think it is no exaggeration to say that they move everything in our life! I think it is great that our catalyst makes the product itself more environmentally friendly and the world a littler greener, but of course our commitment to sustainability does not stop there,” says Lisandro Costa, Site Manager at the plant in Puerto General San Martín. The site’s ongoing efforts to reduce energy and steam consumption have resulted in significant environmental and economic benefits. A collaborative innovation with colleagues from Technology & Infrastructure in Germany for example led to the development of specialized equipment that recycles low-pressure steam, cutting the site’s steam usage by up to 20%.
Efforts that the team in Puerto General San Martín wants to expand even further in the future: “Looking ahead, we are poised to further enhance our sustainability initiatives. We are actively exploring the transition to green electricity, despite the current challenges in Argentina's renewable energy market. Additionally, we aim to minimize steam usage in favor of electricity, further reducing our CO2 footprint,” Costa reveals.
Efforts that pay off: Even though Evonik as a B2B company does not produce biodiesel itself, it is still recognized as a “big player” in the biodiesel industry. “Our role as the sole supplier of sodium methylate in Argentina positions us as a pivotal player in the biodiesel sector. Our strategic importance is recognized by producers who rely on our catalyst to maintain their operations efficiently.”
Knowing that and recognizing the burgeoning biodiesel market in South America, particularly in Argentina and Brazil, the site has expanded its production capacity by 50% last year. This expansion not only meets growing demand but also enhances Evonik’s competitive edge.
A DEDICATED TEAM AND CULTURE OF SAFETY
"The recognition and appreciation from the industry naturally keeps motivation high at the site," explains Costa. A dedicated team of just 28 employees works in shifts around the clock to keep production running. Besides efficiency and sustainability, the human aspect is not neglected: "The health and well-being of our employees is our top priority," Costa explains.
This is ensured, for example, through increased automation at the site, including in product quality inspections. Automation can reduce employees' exposure time to chemicals in the facility and minimize the risk of accidents. "We want our colleagues to come to work, do their jobs, and return safely to their families."
Whether in terms of safety, sustainability, or production, the Puerto General San Martín site is more than just a production facility. Through innovative ideas, strategic expansions, and tireless commitment, it contributes to a better future.
About the site
Nestled near Rosario, Argentina, Evonik’s Puerto General San Martín site produces sodium methylate, which is an important catalyst in large-scale biodiesel production. The plant is strategically located in one of the most important soybean centers on our planet. In 2024, the site celebrated its ten years anniversary and also celebrated the expansion of its production capacity by 50 percent. 28 employees work daily in the plant in three shifts to guarantee 24/7 operation committed to social and environmental responsibility.
