Technical Training Session: SAF Production Technologies and Certification

Welcome and Introduction

• Jane Hoopy, Director of IKEA Environment Program, welcomed participants.
• Highlighted the need to address knowledge gaps in SAF implementation among participating states.
• Acknowledged participation from Asia Pacific region despite time differences.
• Session Focus: Understanding Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) specifications, new fuel production pathways, and certification processes.
• Featured Speakers: Mr. Ross Walker (Airbus), Mr. Markham Hussein (U.S. Federal Aviation Administration), and Mr. Nicolas Sturland (Safra).

Overview of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF)

• ATF and Jet Fuel Definitions

  • ATF is also known as Jet A or Jet A1 fuel.
  • Key specifications: ASTM d1655 and Def Stan 091/091.
  • Composed of paraffins, naphthenes, and aromatics.

• Production of ATF

  • Derived from crude oil, differing in sulfur content and viscosity.
  • Various processes used to synthesize fuels from non-petroleum sources.

SAF: Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuels

• First approved non-petroleum ATF in 1999 via Fischer-Tropsch process.
• ASTM D4054 and D7566 documents guide approval and certification.
• Seven approved pathways using various feedstocks and processes.
• Blending requirements to ensure safety and performance matching Jet A fuel.

Certification Process and Evaluation

• Process Overview

  • ASTM D4054 evaluation process ensures new fuels match existing Jet A fuel.
  • Involves rigorous testing and industry reviews.

• ASTM D7566 Specification

  • Details synthetic blend components and blending ratios.
  • Fuels must meet ASTM D1655 to be flight-approved.

Challenges and Future Directions

• 100% SAF Certification

  • Current challenge: developing specifications for 100% SAF.
  • Exploring fully formulated SAF and blending aromatic components.

• Efficiency of Certification Process

  • Enhancing understanding of fuel impacts on aircraft systems.
  • Role of Clearinghouses in supporting producers through certification.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

• Continual work towards expanding certified pathways and developing 100% drop-in SAF.
• Upcoming session on March 23rd: SAF Market Outlook and Policies.
• Encouragement for feedback to improve training sessions.