PTPN IV To Build Activated Carbon Plant

Director of Planning and Development of PTPN IV Medan Memed Wiramiharja said SOE which has to manage oil palm plantations will enter downstream to process oil palm shells into activated carbon.

“During this palm shell is processed less maximum. Part of it used for fishing combustion in boilers. Opportunities to expand activated carbon is open wide as Indonesia still imports ,” he said in Medan, Thursday (3/27).

He said PTPN IV Medan cooperates with experts from Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) to study the use of shells into activated carbon.

“There are human resources in LIPI, while PTPN IV has capital and raw materials. If these are synergized, it would be better,” he said.

He estimated in 2015, PTPN IV activated carbon plant has already started construction and is expected to operate in the same year.

Related to the availability of raw materials, he confirmed, activated carbon plant should near to the raw materials. "We've conducted studies, plant will be established Simalungun." He said.

Meanwhile activated carbon price will be in range of US$500-US$1,500 per ton.

“Activated carbon price in global market is very attractive. The margin is relatively high as its industry players still a few. It has good and promising prospect. Indonesia still imports it,” he said.