Aster Chemicals and Energy and Puraglobe have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore the establishment of a re-refined base oil (RRBO) processing facility in Singapore. This collaboration seeks to convert used motor oil into high-performance Group II/III/III+ base oils, which are essential for various industrial applications, including automotive and aviation.
The proposed facility, named Project PURANOVA, would be the first of its kind outside Germany, addressing Asia’s need for sustainable lubricant production. Puraglobe’s proprietary technologies, HyLube and HyRes, will be combined with Aster’s refining capabilities to create a scalable solution for re-refining motor oil. This initiative aligns with Singapore’s industrial goals and aims to reduce waste whilst extending resource lifecycles.
Andre Khor, Deputy CEO of Aster, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating, “This collaboration with Puraglobe is a deliberate step towards the kind of advanced, higher-value production that defines Singapore’s next industrial chapter.” The companies will conduct joint feasibility studies on Aster’s Bukom Island to assess the project’s viability.
Puraglobe CEO Dr. Alois Virag emphasised the potential of used motor oil as a valuable resource, saying, “Puraglobe has spent three decades proving that used motor oil is not waste, it is a premium feedstock waiting to be unlocked.” The partnership aims to leverage Singapore as a strategic base for expanding sustainable oil refining technologies in Asia.
