"This achievement moves the technology closer to real-world application by giving us data to better evaluate its commercial aviation potential," said Bin Yang, lead scientist and professor in WSU's Department of Biological Systems Engineering.
Lignin, a structural molecule that provides strength to plant tissues, is obtained from corn stover - comprising stalks, cobs, and leaves left after harvest - along with other agricultural byproducts. The research team developed a process called "simultaneous depolymerization and hydrodeoxygenation" to break down lignin and simultaneously remove oxygen, resulting in lignin-based jet fuel. The scientists successfully demonstrated the continuous process at their Richland facility by introducing dissolved lignin into a hydrotreating reactor.
The global aviation industry consumed nearly 100 billion gallons of fuel in 2019, and demand is expected to grow. Sustainable aviation fuels, such as those derived from lignin, are key to reducing the industry's carbon footprint and achieving international carbon neutrality targets.
Lignin-based jet fuel has several advantages, such as offering cleaner and more efficient alternatives to fossil fuel-derived compounds known as aromatics, which are linked to contrails and climate impacts but are essential for enhancing fuel density and seal-swelling characteristics in jet engines.
This test marks the first successful demonstration of a continuous process using a less refined, more affordable form of lignin, known as "technical lignin," sourced from corn stover. The results suggest lignin is a promising source of cycloalkanes and other fuel compounds that can replace aromatics.
"The aviation industry aims to generate 100% renewable jet fuel," said Josh Heyne, a co-director of the WSU-PNNL Bioproducts Institute. "Lignin-based fuels complement existing technologies by increasing the density of fuel blends, helping to achieve this goal."
Lignin-based fuels could reduce emissions and eventually allow SAFs to be fully "drop-in" compatible, meaning they can be used with all existing aviation engines, infrastructure, and aircraft. The team's research, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and other organizations, is now focused on improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the process.
Research Report:A simultaneous depolymerization and hydrodeoxygenation process to produce lignin-based jet fuel in continuous flow reactor
Related Links
WSU College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences
Bio Fuel Technology and Application News
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