Viscolube has commissioned Axens’ Hydrofinishing technology for the Revivoil™, spent oil re-refining process at its Italian plant in Pieve Fissiraga. This upgrade enables the production of ultra-pure lubricants via hydrotreating, removing impurities such as sulfur, metals and polyaromatics, while maintaining the physical characteristics of the lubricants. Viscolube is the first manufacturer of group II base oils from used oils in Europe. Group II base oils are superior base stock as compared to the group I products.

The 80,000 tons per year unit was commissioned in July 2003 and employs catalysts for both metals removal (HMC 841) and for denitrification, desulfurization and aromatics saturation (HR 448). The Revivoil process has been developed jointly by Axens and Viscolube, and combines Viscolube’s thermal deasphalting (TDA) technology and Axens’ Hydrofinishing and Selectopropane (propane deasphalting) technologies.

The Revivoil spent oil re-refining technology is yet another process application that has been developed to meet environmental demand. Revivoil economically converts a toxic waste material into a highly valuable, quality product in an ecologically responsible way.

Viscolube

Viscolube, is the European leader in the used oil re-refining sector. Its Italian refinery treats 100,000 tons of used oils every year. ENI holds approximately 33% of the Company’s equity.