A PROCESS to make crude oil refining more environmentally friendly has been launched at a North-East technology centre.

GSA Environmental Ltd (GSAE) is working on experiments at the Wilton Centre, near Redcar, to recover catalytic metals from refinery residues.

Matthew Grimley, GSAE managing director, said it was carrying out bespoke research at Wilton, which would lead the company's tests across the country, and benefit the next generation of oil refining technologies aimed at increasing the amount of products taken from heavy and sour crude oil.

He said: “These processes are typically targeted at processing heavy sour crudes and our proven metal extraction technology and refinery knowledge means we can provide unique treatment solutions to oil refiners and technology providers.”

Steve Duffield, Wilton Centre manager, said GSAE's investment was a coup for the region.

He said: “These facilities were designed to support this kind of cutting-edge research, and are crucial in driving innovation in science and technology.”