Scientists at Washington State University have successfully tested a new method for producing sustainable jet fuel using corn and other agricultural waste. Their research, published in the journal ‘Fuel Processing Technology’, highlights the potential of a тАШlignin-based fuelтАЩ to enhance the cleanliness and usability of sustainable fuels in jet engines.
Lignin is derived from the stalks, cobs, and leaves leftover after corn harvesting. Due to its density, efficiency, and ability to swell seals, lignin-derived hydrocarbons could effectively substitute for fossil fuel-based compounds known as aromatics.
тАЬThe aviation industry aims to produce 100% renewable aviation fuel,тАЭ said Josh Heyne, a member of the research team and co-director of the WSU-PNNL Bioproducts Institute. тАЬLignin-based jet fuel complements existing technologies by enhancing the density of fuel blends, for example.тАЭ
As per the news report by Kiro 7, according to WSU, global aviation fuel consumption reached nearly 100 billion gallons in 2019, with demand projected to rise in the coming decades. Sustainable aviation fuels made from plant-based biomass could help lower the aviation sector’s carbon footprint, mitigate contrails, and contribute to international carbon neutrality goals.
тАЬOur work brings this technology closer to practical application by providing data that helps assess its feasibility for commercial aviation,тАЭ said lead scientist Bin Yang, a professor in WSUтАЩs Department of Biological Systems Engineering.
The team is currently working on refining their process to improve efficiency and reduce costs. This research was supported by the U.S. Department of EnergyтАЩs Bioenergy Technologies Office, the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and Advanced Refining Technologies LLC.
