Driving SAF production with feedstock diversity Routes to producing SAF and the importance of having a diverse range of feedstocks to support the scale-up of this fuel for decarbonisation of the aviation sector
Paul Ticehurst Johnson Matthey
A s the aviation sector strives to reduce emissions, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has emerged as a key enabling solution ( IATA, 2024 ). With global mandates and targets for SAF production increasing, relying on a single feedstock to make SAF is neither practical nor sustainable. Scaling up the industry requires a diversified feedstock approach and innovative technologies. Hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids (HEFA), derived primarily from used cooking oil, have been a key focus for SAF production. Yet, the availability of HEFA feedstocks is limited, with 80% of HEFA feedstocks in the EU being imported ( Stratas Advisors, 2024 ). As other regions establish their own domestic SAF targets, this dependency on imports creates risks to supply stability. Countries such as the US, the UK, and those in Europe, which have led the way
with SAF mandates and incentives, must now diversify their feedstocks to ensure resilience and domestic production capabilities. The Fischer-Tropsch (FT) process provides a scalable solution. This ASTM-approved technology converts syngas, a mixture of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H 2 ), into hydrocarbons that can be upgraded into SAF. Syngas can be derived from a wide variety of feedstocks, including municipal solid waste (MSW), agricultural residues, forestry waste, and captured carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) combined with green hydrogen. By embracing the FT process, countries can expand their SAF production capabilities and reduce reliance on HEFA and feedstock imports. Companies like Johnson Matthey (JM) are leading advancements in syngas technology, helping SAF producers realise the benefits of feedstock diversity.
Global mandates and targets for SAF production are increasing
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