Bangkok--13 Jul--PTT
Responding to His Majesty the King’s will on alternative fuels, the 2-year research on alternative fuels will be conducted for the prosperity of Thailand.
Mr. Ryoichi Sasaki, President of Toyota Motor Thailand Co., LTD., Mr. Eiichi Omura, President of Toyota Technical Center Asia Pacific (Thailand) Co., LTD., Associate Professor Wattana Swanyatiputi, President (Acting) of Kasetsart University and Mr. Chalermsak Juntaro, Executive Vice President of PTT Public Company Limited have signed the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on “Collaborative and Development Project on Jatropha Biodiesel for Diesel Vehicles” at Kamphol Adulavidhaya Conference Room, Saranithes 50 Years Building, Kasetsart University.
His Majesty the King’s concerns over the oil crisis which negatively affects His Thai Subjects and the King’s royal remark on alternative fuels for fuel import substitution have led to close collaboration between leading firms and Kasetsart University on the Jatropha Biodiesel Project. The research objective is to study and investigate on the Jatropha seeds to determine the best species which suit local climate and resist to harmful insects and diseases. The study is also to seek appropriate production process in order to gain the highest output and quality of Jatropha Biodiesel; to find out any possible economic and social impacts caused by Jatropha planting; as well as to assess on fuel quality, corrosion of engine parts, fuel supply system, performance and durability of the engine, and emission. The roles of each party are hereby stated:
- KU will conduct the research and development of biodiesel production in order to determine which variety will be best compatible to Thai climate, to study about insects and pest and to analyze an appropriate biodiesel production techniques with the environment, economic and social impacts. Then, will provide PTT with the Jatropha biodiesel (B100) that meets Japanese fuel regulation considered by FAME usage and JASO FAME standard at PTT’s cost. This project will unite 12 of KU-Biodiesel campaign researchers from all campuses of Kasetsart University.
- TMT will provide 9.9 million baht divided to a grant to KU for the research and development for 5.6 millions baht and also provide 3 Hilux Vigo trucks, 4 units of 1KD C-Cab and parts designed for Euro 4 to the test cost 4.3 million baht.
- TTC-AP will provide the test materials, parts and concerned equipment for the test, carry out the engine test under the composite driving cycle, fuel injection system evaluation and provide technical support such as test methods, analysis, evaluations and advices for the project worth 4 million baht.
- PTT will provide 18 million baht to conduct fuel quality analysis; to evaluate performance in various systems such as fuel supply system as well as engine and automobile performances. PTT will also supply B100 and Bt fuel which meet the Japanese “FAME” standard and “JASO FAME” standard. Moreover, PTT will supply lubricants and necessary parts. PTT will utilize its research and laboratory as well as its technology, know-how, and researcher’s experience to provide full support of this project.
The research objectives are to seek proper species of Jatropha seeds and best cultivating technique. If successful, Jatropha then will become economic crop and be used to produce alternative fuel which can help reduce oil imports and improve local agricultural sector. The result of the research will be further analyzed and will help encourage the higher consumption of domestic fuel which will lead to employment growth and the country’s sustainable development.
Source: PR of Toyota Motor Thailand Co., LTD.
Tel: 0-2305-2046-6 Fax: 0-2305-2014-5
PR of PTT Company Limited
Tel: 0-2537-2159-60, 0-2537-2163 Fax: 0-2537-2174