Synthetic Jet Fuels and their Impact in Aircraft Performance and Elastomer Materials

Increased oil prices and environmental awareness have resulted in worldwide efforts for developing renewable jet-fuel alternatives, at the point when several synthetic fuels are currently certified for blending with Jet-A/JP-8. However there are uncertainties regarding the effects in aircraft performance and systems of properties such density, heating value and chemical composition. While the higher heating value and lower density synthetic common in renewable fuels under development might result in higher aircraft performance, the lack of aromatic components could result in damage in the elastomer materials used in the fuel system. This paper presents results of the changes in performance characteristics (Thrust, SFC, and TIT) of a micro-turbine operated with various Fischer-Tropsch (FT) and Hydrotreated Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) jet fuels and their blend with Jet-A, a payload vs. range analysis of a commercial airliner. Mass and volume swelling measurements of nitrile rubber O-rings immersed during 28 days in Jet-A and renewable fuels blends are also presented.

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