The gas-to-SAF conversion of biogas into these different forms of energy requires specific infrastructure and technologies tailored to each process. Upcycle Fuels is involved in developing and implementing these technologies to facilitate the conversion of biogas into sustainable aviation fuel, hydrogen, or electricity, contributing to the transition to a more sustainable energy system.
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is typically purchased by airlines, aircraft operators, and other aviation industry stakeholders who are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and meeting sustainability goals. These entities may include commercial airlines, private jet operators, cargo carriers, and governmental organizations with aviation fleets. Additionally, some companies involved in the production and distribution of aviation fuel may also purchase SAF for blending with conventional jet fuel to meet regulatory requirements or to offer environmentally friendly options to their customers. As sustainability initiatives become more prevalent in the aviation industry, the demand for SAF is expected to grow, attracting a broader range of buyers across the sector.
Many airlines have announced plans to purchase sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), including the:
Converting renewable natural gas (RNG) to sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) using Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis involves several steps. Here's a simplified overview:
Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) Production: RNG is produced through the anaerobic decomposition of organic waste in landfills, wastewater treatment plants, or agricultural waste. This process generates methane, which can be captured and purified to produce RNG.
Gasification (if necessary): If the RNG is not already in a gaseous form, it may need to undergo a gasification process to convert it into a synthesis gas (syngas) consisting primarily of hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO).
Fischer-Tropsch (FT) Synthesis: The syngas produced from RNG is then fed into the Fischer-Tropsch reactor. In this reactor, the syngas undergoes a catalytic reaction to form long-chain hydrocarbons, primarily consisting of paraffins and olefins.
Hydroprocessing: The hydrocarbons produced in the FT synthesis typically need to undergo hydroprocessing to refine them into suitable aviation fuels. This process involves hydrogenation, isomerization, and other refining steps to improve the fuel's properties, such as reducing its freezing point and increasing its energy density.
Blending and Certification: The resulting hydroprocessed fuels are blended with additives to meet the required specifications for aviation fuels, such as ASTM D1655. These fuels undergo testing and certification to ensure they meet safety and performance standards for use in aircraft.
It's important to note that while the FT process can convert RNG into hydrocarbons suitable for aviation fuels, the overall process involves several steps and requires careful management to ensure the final product meets the necessary quality and regulatory standards. Additionally, the economics of such a conversion process would need to be carefully evaluated, considering factors such as feedstock availability, capital costs, and market demand for sustainable aviation fuels.