Hyderabad: Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the CSIR–Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad, for the development of a continuous process to produce Formic Acid from carbon dioxide (CO₂).
The agreement, signed on October 6, 2026, focuses on developing a continuous catalytic process for converting captured CO₂ into Formic Acid through catalytic hydrogenation. The initiative aims to promote carbon utilisation and advance sustainable chemical process technologies.
The collaboration marks an important step in NRL’s efforts to strengthen its decarbonisation initiatives and adopt innovative solutions for reducing its carbon footprint.
NRL and CSIR-IICT to Develop Continuous Formic Acid Production Process
Under the agreement, NRL and CSIR-IICT will work together to develop a continuous process for producing Formic Acid by converting captured carbon dioxide through catalytic hydrogenation.
The proposed process will focus on utilising CO₂ as a resource for producing a value-added chemical, supporting the development of sustainable chemical technologies.
The key highlights of the collaboration include:
- Agreement: Memorandum of Agreement between NRL and CSIR-IICT, Hyderabad.
- Date of Signing: October 6, 2026.
- Technology Focus: Development of a continuous catalytic process for Formic Acid production.
- Raw Material: Captured carbon dioxide (CO₂).
- Process: Catalytic hydrogenation of CO₂.
- Primary Objective: Carbon utilisation through the conversion of CO₂ into a value-added chemical product.
Collaboration Supports NRL’s Net Zero Target by 2038
The initiative aligns with Numaligarh Refinery’s commitment to achieving its Net Zero target by 2038.
By exploring technologies that convert captured carbon dioxide into useful chemical products, the collaboration supports NRL’s broader decarbonisation strategy and its efforts to build a low-carbon refinery ecosystem.
The development of the proposed process also highlights the potential of carbon utilisation technologies in promoting sustainable industrial practices.
Converting captured CO₂ into Formic Acid represents a circular approach to carbon management, enabling the utilisation of carbon dioxide as a resource rather than treating it only as an emission.
Advancing Sustainable Chemical Technologies
The partnership between NRL and CSIR-IICT reflects the growing importance of research and technological innovation in the refining and chemical industries.
The development of continuous catalytic processes could contribute to advancing carbon utilisation technologies and creating opportunities for more sustainable chemical production.
Through this initiative, NRL aims to strengthen its focus on innovation, environmental sustainability and the transition towards a low-carbon industrial ecosystem.
About Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL)
Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) is a public sector oil refining company based in Numaligarh, Assam. It operates under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and plays an important role in India’s petroleum refining sector, particularly in the Northeast. The company focuses on refining, infrastructure development, operational expansion and sustainable energy initiatives.
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