Praxair Wins Hydrogen Contract with Cetane Energy

Praxair, Inc. (NYSE: PX) has been awarded a contract to supply hydrogen to Cetane Energy, LLC for the production of second-generation renewable diesel from tallow (animal fat) at its biorefinery in Carlsbad, N.M.

Cetane’s renewable diesel is highly stable and provides higher ignition value than traditional biodiesel or petrodiesel, while producing lower emissions. It is indistinguishable from traditional diesel fuel and can work as a replacement or as a blend stock to enhance the quality of existing diesel fuels. Cetane uses a feedstock-flexible process, so it can produce its renewable fuel from a wide range of biofeedstocks, including algae.

"We chose Praxair because it’s one of the largest and most respected hydrogen suppliers in the U.S.,” said Cetane Chief Executive Officer Richard Aves. "Praxair’s hydrogen supply systems and technical expertise played an important role in making this project possible.”

"Praxair is a leader in developing and supplying products and technologies that enable diversification of our energy network with environmentally-friendly fuels,” said Anne Roby, vice president of Praxair’s North American Industrial Gases South Region. "We are pleased to have the opportunity to supply hydrogen to an innovative alternative fuel company like Cetane.”

Cetane Energy is dedicated to producing renewable energy solutions, limiting U.S. dependency on foreign oil and creating an economy that can sustain its own energy needs. More information on Cetane is available at www.cetaneenergy.com.

Praxair is the largest industrial gases company in North and South America, and one of the largest worldwide, with 2008 sales of $10.8 billion. The company produces, sells and distributes atmospheric, process and specialty gases, and high-performance surface coatings. Praxair is a recognized leader in the commercialization of new technologies that bring productivity and environmental benefits to a diverse group of industries, including aerospace, chemicals, electronics, energy, food and beverage, healthcare, manufacturing, metals and others. More information on Praxair is available on the Internet at www.praxair.com.