Catalytic production of aviation jet biofuels from biomass: a review

Abstract

The aviation sector is a major emitter of fossil fuel-derived carbon dioxide contributing to global warming. For instance, jet fuel consumed by the aviation industry is 1.5–1.7 billion barrels per year, resulting in 705 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Aircraft manufacturers have set ambitious goals, aiming for carbon-free growth post-2020 and a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. This issue can be solved by replacing fossil fuels with biofuels produced from modern biomass, thus meeting the carbon neutral objective. Here, we review the technologies to convert biomass into jet biofuel with focus on reactants, catalysts, and the chemistry of combustion. Reactants include alcohols, oil, esters, fatty acids, gas and sugars. Catalysts include Fischer–Tropsch catalysts, palladium, platinum, ruthenium, nickel, and molybdenum. The utilization of jet biofuels could potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%. We also discuss economic implications.