Global technology powerhouse Siemens and cleantech innovator Caphenia have joined forces to turbocharge the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), a synthetic kerosene that can cut CO₂ emissions by up to 80% compared to fossil fuels.

 

As Caphenia’s preferred automation and digitalization partner, Siemens will supply cutting-edge digital and automation solutions for the company’s plasma technology, which converts bio-methane into synthesis gas. The collaboration aims to create a standardized concept that could drive the global rollout of commercial SAF production facilities.

 

Caphenia’s technology operates at blistering temperatures of around 1,500°C, splitting bio-methane into synthesis gas in its unique Plasma Boudouard Reactor (PBR). The 3-in-1 reactor integrates three chemical reactions in a single system, producing synthesis gas that can be converted into SAF, renewable diesel, or chemical products—without by-products and with minimal energy loss. 

 

A key innovation: the heat from cooling the gas preheats incoming bio-methane, boosting process efficiency to over 86%, far above conventional methods.

 

"Decarbonizing aviation cannot be achieved without synthetic fuels. Demand for SAF is growing exponentially, yet production capacity urgently needs to be ramped up," said Christian Gückel, Head of Vertical Chemicals at Siemens Digital Industries. 

 

"This is exactly where Siemens comes in: with our digitalization and automation solutions, we are making CAPHENIA's technology industrially scalable and thus accelerating its global market ramp-up."

 

Mark Misselhorn, founder and CEO of Caphenia, added: "This partnership shows how technology leaders are working together to drive forward the energy transition. Siemens brings the portfolio and expertise to standardize and digitalize our plants. 

 

"But the real point is this: the market for sustainable aviation fuels will not grow evenly—it will fragment. Those who scale quickly, those who are industrial-ready, those who have the right partners will lead. Together, we are not only laying the foundation for the international ramp-up of our PBR technology – we want to lead it."

 

Under the partnership, Siemens becomes Caphenia’s go-to supplier, providing solutions from its Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, including process control systems, drive and measurement technology, and process simulation software. Digital twins will allow optimization of operating parameters before commissioning and consistent process management across multiple sites.