Benchmarking data from the experience gained in engine performance and emissions testing on alternative fuels for aviation

Abstract

Alternative fuel for aviation has been the centre of serious focus for the last decade, owing mostly to the challenges posed by the price of conventional petroleum fuel, energy security and environmental concerns. The downslide in the oil prices in the recent months and the fact that energy security is not considered a major threat in commercial aviation, these factors have worked negatively for the promotion of alternative fuels. However, the continuous commitment to environmental stewardship by Governments and the industry have kept the momentum going towards the transparent integration of renewable alternatives in the aviation market. On the regulatory side, much progress have been made in the same timeframe with five alternative fuels being certified as synthetic blending components for aviation turbine fuels for use in civil aircraft and engines. Another seven alternative fuels are in the various stages of certification protocol. This progress has been made possible because of the extensive performance testing, both at full engine conditions and at engine components level. This article presents the results of engine performance and air pollutant emissions measurements gathered from the alternative fuels qualification testing conducted at the National Research Council Canada over the last seven years. This benchmarking data was collected on various engine platforms at full engine operation at sea level and/or altitude conditions using a variety of aviation alternative fuels and their blends. In order to provide a reference comparison basis, the results collected using the alternative fuels are compared with baseline Jet-A1 or JP-8 conventional fuels.