The construction of Kazakhstan’s first alkylate production plant has started in Pavlodar region, with an annual production capacity of 97.6 thousand tonnes. This unique, large-scale project is being implemented by INTERTRANS C.A. LLP.
The production of alkylate will represent an important step in the ecological transformation of the fuel industry. Alkylate is a high-octane gasoline component that greatly enhances the properties of fuel while reducing carbon dioxide and toxic emissions into the atmosphere. This project not only brings a new technological facility to Kazakhstan but also marks a significant milestone in enhancing the country’s oil refining capabilities.
“At present, alkylate is not produced in our country, and this project will be a significant step towards the production of high-quality fuel that complies with the highest environmental standards, K-5 (Euro-5). It will also supply Kazakhstan and neighboring countries with an environmentally friendly, high-octane component for automotive and aviation gasoline”, said Murat Kudiyarbek, General Director of INTERTRANS C.A. LLP.
Over 500 jobs will be created during the plant’s construction phase, and 125 permanent positions will be established once the main production facility is operational. This will create new job opportunities for residents and help improve the region’s infrastructure.
The total project cost is KZT 35 billion. To support the project implementation, Development Bank of Kazakhstan JSC (DBK) and INTERTRANS C.A. LLP signed a Credit Facility Agreement on December 20, 2024.
Transitioning to the use of alkylate as an octane-boosting component will enable Kazakhstan to enhance fuel quality and substantially reduce its environmental impact. This aligns with the goals of improving environmental conditions and represents a crucial step toward achieving sustainable development targets. Meanwhile, DBK actively supports initiatives focused on adopting “clean technologies” and minimizing harmful emissions, treating them as a strategic priority in its operations.
Currently, refineries in Kazakhstan use octane-boosting components like N-methylaniline and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE). However, their use presents several limitations. N-methylaniline is toxic, contributes to nitrogen oxide emissions, accelerates fuel corrosion, and increases engine wear. While MTBE improves octane rating, its oxygen content leads to the production of harmful substances during combustion.
Alkylate is a modern and eco-friendly solution with several key advantages:
• Environmental benefits: reduces emissions of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carcinogens;
• Fuel quality: promotes uniform combustion, reduces knocking, and extends engine lifespan;
• Stability: resistant to oxidation, which enhances the shelf life of gasoline.
