A major step towards petroleum alternatives is imminent, with Sasol of South Africa poised to receive approval for a completely synthetic jet fuel.
Sasol which already produces semi-synthetic jet fuel once again leads development of Fischer-Tropsch fuels in aviation, with commercial interest mounting in the drop-in alternative.
"Once the product is certificated it loses its identity as synthetic fuel and become Jet A1. No special arrangements are necessary to supply or use the fuel," says Johan Botha, general manager of product applications for Sasol. The company's Natref refinery has supplied airports in South Africa and its neighbouring countries with a jet fuel blend of up to 50% synthetic content since 1999.
The latest modification of Defence Standard 91-91 by the Aviation Fuels Committee (AFC) of the UK Ministry of Defence - which is referred to by global jet fuel standards organisation ASTM International - follows eight years of testing. AFC notes the detailed chemical and physical data supplied by Sasol was assessed "by industry experts, including engine and airframe OEMs".