Gevo announces collaboration with marine fuel additive supplier ValvTect
Gevo, Inc. announced that it will collaborate with ValvTect, a leading supplier of marine fuel additives, in bringing renewable isobutanol fuel blends to ValvTect-branded marinas, following the recent completion of successful compatibility tests.
ValvTect has a distribution network of more than 700 marinas, which represent more than half of the marinas in the U.S. This collaboration will provide Gevo with access to marinas that currently utilize ValvTect additives. In addition, the partnership is expected to open the door for Gevo and ValvTect to expand into additional marinas looking to provide high-performance gasoline blends using Gevo’s renewable isobutanol and ValvTect’s additives.
Gevo’s announcement comes after a series of tests were run using clear (ethanol-free) gasoline that was blended with 16% isobutanol and ValvTect’s marine fuel additive. ValvTect marine fuel additives are formulated to improve fuel quality, enhance engine performance and extend engine life, the company said.
According to Gevo, its isobutanol provided higher energy content than ethanol blends, prevented moisture absorption and phase separation and reduced engine corrosion when used in marine fuel, test results showed. Gevo’s isobutanol was recently endorsed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
“We are impressed with the quality of Gevo’s isobutanol fuel blend,” said Marvin Griffin, president of ValvTect. “When combined with ValvTect’s marine fuel additive, you’re looking at a final product that we believe is a superior fuel for boat engines. This is a winning scenario for all parties — ValvTect, Gevo, marinas and boating enthusiasts alike.”
“ValvTect is a well-known and trusted brand in the marina market, so the fact that ValvTect is collaborating with Gevo should give marina customers confidence in the reliability of their fuel,” said Gevo CEO Patrick Gruber.
Gevo produces renewable isobutanol, ethanol and high-value animal feed at its fermentation plant in Luverne, Minn., U.S.A. Gevo has also developed technology to produce hydrocarbon products from renewable alcohols. Gevo currently operates a biorefinery in Silsbee, Texas, U.S.A., in collaboration with South Hampton Resources Inc., to produce renewable jet fuel, octane, and ingredients for plastics.