Jatropha oil has emerged as one of the most promising feedstocks for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Through advanced processing technologies like HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids), jatropha oil is converted into drop-in jet fuel that meets international aviation standards and can be used in existing aircraft without modifications.
Drop-In Fuel Technology
SAF from jatropha is chemically identical to conventional jet fuel, requiring no engine modifications and blending seamlessly with existing fuel supplies at any ratio up to 50%.
Key Advantages
Drop-In Compatible
Works with existing aircraft engines and fuel infrastructure without any modifications.
Up to 80% CO2 Reduction
Lifecycle carbon emissions reduced by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.
Lower Freezing Point
Jatropha-based SAF has excellent cold-weather performance for high-altitude flight.
ASTM Certified
Meets ASTM D7566 international standards for aviation turbine fuel.
Aviation Industry Adoption
Major airlines around the world have successfully tested and adopted jatropha-based sustainable aviation fuel:
| Airline | Year | Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Air New Zealand | 2008 | First successful test flight with 50% jatropha SAF blend |
| Continental Airlines | 2009 | Commercial test flight using jatropha-algae blend |
| Japan Airlines | 2009 | Successful biofuel demonstration flight |
| Lufthansa | 2011 | Six-month biofuel trial on scheduled flights |
| Boeing | 2012 | Multiple ecoDemonstrator flights with SAF |
How Jatropha SAF is Made
The conversion process involves several key steps:
- Oil extraction - Jatropha seeds are pressed to extract crude oil
- Pre-treatment - Oil is cleaned and degummed to remove impurities
- Hydroprocessing (HEFA) - Oil undergoes catalytic conversion with hydrogen
- Isomerization - Molecular structure adjusted for optimal jet fuel properties
- Blending - Certified SAF blended with conventional jet fuel (up to 50%)
Technical Specifications
Jatropha-derived SAF meets stringent aviation fuel requirements:
- Energy density: 43-44 MJ/kg (comparable to Jet-A)
- Freezing point: Below -47°C
- Flash point: Above 38°C
- Sulfur content: Near zero
- Aromatics: Reduced compared to fossil jet fuel
Learn more about jatropha as SAF feedstock or explore the complete SAF production process.