Help us deepen the understanding of how Wood Pyrolysis Oil (WPO) reacts to end products when co-processed with fossil feedstock in a Fluid Catalytic Cracker (FCC).

Whilst the cracking of WPO has been studied and the overall composition of WPO is known, how the individual components of the WPO react are still poorly known.

Subject

The Fluid Catalytic Cracking process works by fluidizing catalyst in steam and vaporized hydrocarbons to break down heavy hydrocarbons into lighter products such as gasoline and LPG. Preems refinery in Lysekil operates the only FCC unit in the world that co-processes wood pyrolysis oil continuously. As WPO contains over 200 individual compounds, the aim to characterize all compounds and their cracking derivatives requires significant resources. Therefore, it is more valuable to focus on characterizing the most common compounds.

This master thesis, in cooperation with a third party, aims to co-processing individual WPO compounds with fossil feed in lab scale to analyze the reaction products. 

Size (30 hp)

Purpose

Renewable hydrocarbons from WPO end up in all fractions leaving the FCC unit. To be able to model that we need better understanding of what molecules the main constituents of WPO react into. These findings will then serve as the groundwork for further tracking of green molecules and improved cracking yields.

We offer

You will be an important part of Preem - a workplace characterized by a welcoming atmosphere, trust in the employees and the ambition to be the best in the industry when it comes to sustainability. Here, you get freedom with responsibility and often the chance to be involved in entire processes - from start to finish. The fact that our refineries are among the most efficient in Europe doesn't stop us: we want to keep improving. Thanks to our size and our complex products, there is always something new to learn in an exciting business characterized by rapid change, clear rules and high safety standards.

Do you have this background?

Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Bio Engineering student.

Is this you?

We are looking for students who are Responsible, Innovative, Inclusive and show potential for self-leadership. We will place great emphasis on personal qualities and interest in Preem's business. Of course, you also share our green ambitions. Because when it comes down to it, there is no direction more important than the one towards a more sustainable society. 

Next steps

If you have any questions about the thesis, you are welcome to contact anders.balksten@preem.se or oskar.sorensson@preem.se

Selection takes place continuously during the advertising period and the degree project may be filled before the application period ends. Send your application as soon as possible but no later than 27th of October.

If you are two applicants who want to complete the degree project together, we ask that one of you apply but that you each attach your CV in the application. One CV is added as usual and the other CV you upload under "Additional files” (“Övriga document”).

We only accept applications via the recruitment system.

Trade union contact person can be found here.

We are looking forward to seeing your application!

About Preem

PREEM is Sweden's largest fuel company. Our vision is to lead the transformation towards a sustainable society. By 2035, Preem aims to produce about 5 million cubic meters of renewable fuels and be climate neutral throughout the value chain.

Preem's refineries are among the most modern and environmentally friendly in Europe with a refining capacity of over 18 million cubic meters per year. We process and sell fuel, heating and lubricating oil and other products to companies and private individuals.

We have a nationwide service network with about 500 stations for private and commercial traffic. Preem AB has about 1,500 employees, of which 1,100 work at the refineries. For the full year 2022, Preem's turnover was SEK 161 billion.

Read more about Preem's vision, values and a career at Preem here.