Ellory Berniard¹ and Jalyn Huang²#

¹ Math and Science Academy
² Irvine High School
#Advisor

ABSTRACT

As a key piece in global connectivity, the aviation industry represents a large part of our world economy and culture. Currently, it faces the substantial challenge of evolving and innovating to meet the International Civil Aviation Organization’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. This review explores the historical development of aviation fuel and the emergence of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as a response to environmental and regulatory demands. Beginning with the early use of tetraethyl lead (TEL) in aviation gasoline, aviation has achieved many great technological milestones and policy shifts, such as the development of high-octane unleaded aviation gasoline. But as the world looks towards a more sustainable future, examining current SAF infrastructure is essential to make improvements in the future. This review covers two primary generations of SAF: biofuels and E-Kerosene. Biofuels offer a short-term solution using biomass-derived hydrocarbons, however it also introduces many concerns over land use, cost, and effectiveness. In contrast, E-Kerosene, derived from carbon capture and renewable energy, presents a long-term solution to these issues. Both approaches rely on the Fischer-Tropsch process to synthesize hydrocarbons identical to those in conventional jet fuel, enabling compatibility with existing engines. While biofuels are a necessary transitional solution, the future of sustainable aviation lies in scaling E-Kerosene production through investment in renewable infrastructure. Understanding the evolution and science behind SAF is essential to achieving a more sustainable future in global air travel.

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