Palm Kernel Fatty Acid Distillate (PKFAD) — Frequently Asked Questions

Both are distillates from physical refining, but they come from different oils. PFAD comes from palm oil and is rich in palmitic and oleic acids, with an iodine value around 45–60. PKFAD comes from palm kernel oil and is rich in lauric and myristic acids, with an iodine value typically below 30. The difference in chain length changes both fuel yields and oleochemical value.

Hydroprocessing cracks and isomerises fatty acid chains. C16 and C18 chains land efficiently in the jet range, while lauric (C12) and myristic (C14) chains produce a larger share of lighter products such as naphtha. Producers that maximise jet output therefore usually limit PKFAD to a modest proportion of their feed.

Yes, by direct acid-catalysed esterification with methanol, because its FFA is too high for alkaline transesterification. The lauric-rich methyl ester is stable and fluid, but check viscosity, flash point and distillation behaviour against EN 14214 and local blending rules before use, as these differ from conventional C16/C18 esters.

FFA, saponifiable matter, MIU and iodine value set the basic quality, while fatty acid composition, especially the C12 and C14 content, often determines value, because lauric acids are sought after for soaps and surfactants. Fuel buyers add sulphur, phosphorus and metals as their conversion route requires.

No. It is not listed in Annex IX and, as a palm-derived by-product, it is often treated like PFAD: as a co-product with limited or no incentives in several markets. Confirm the classification and the certificate scope for the specific lot with your certification body before contracting.

In heated ISO tanks, flexitanks with heating pads or heated bulk parcels, usually discharged at around 40–55 °C. Stainless steel or lined tanks are preferred because of its acidity, and heat-traced lines prevent it from setting during transfer in cooler weather.