CanaPux
CanaPux™ technology is an innovative and safe way to transport extra-heavy crude. It turns bitumen into a solid pellet that can be transported to global market using the same infrastructure as coal or petroleum coke.
August 2019, API signed an IP license and distribution agreement of the CanaPux technology with CN Railway.
API’s long-term plan is to produce CanaPux in Alberta and export them to China via the Canadian west coast.
What is CanaPux technology?
CanaPux pellets are a unique method of converting heavy crude oil into a solid pellet capable of being transported as a dry bulk good. The result is a non-hazardous pellet that does not burn, leak, or dissolve and furthermore, the pellets float. CanaPux pellets have been developed by CN, in conjunction with InnoTech Alberta. Toyo Engineering Canada Ltd. has been awarded a contract to design and construct a pilot plant that can demonstrate commercial speeds of the solidifying and reliquefying process. The pilot is anticipated to be commissioned in 2019.
The Process
Environment and Safety
Respecting and protecting the environment is important to us. CanaPux is developed as an environmentally secure and protected way of transporting bitumen or heavy crude oil. There are some important environmental innovations built into CanaPux pellets. They will float in water, eliminating concerns around spills. CanaPux pellets are environmentally inert. There is no dust and they are designed so that nothing can leach or dissolve into the environment. CanaPux pellets have very high security. They are not flammable or explosive. Temperatures above 145℃ (290℉) are required before CanaPux pellets will burn.