Research and development
In line with company long-term strategy, in which the principles of Sustainable Development play an integral part, Slovnaft is actively responding to the growing demand for biofuels in export markets.
In 2012, we increased the share of bio-components added to our petrol and diesel fuels. Research & Development focused on the development of formulae, verification of the possibility of producing Arctic and premium diesel fuels, kerosene based on medium and deeply refined petroleum fractions in the presence of hydrogen, extra light heating oil, bunker oil - marine fuel of a quality meeting IMO/MARPOL/ISO8217 requirements - and premium motor vehicle gasoline. Except for EVO fuel, all these products are now in production and being marketed. The development of bunker oils with reduced viscosity and improved storage (oxidation) stability permitted a significant increase in heating oil sales.
In addition to new product development, the company has focused on investing in environmental projects; projects aimed at ensuring increased operational reliability and increased production process efficiency. Investment activities were also directed at improving products to meet market requirements.