(574a) Biomass Gasification Research for Hydrogen and FT-SAF Production

SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) production technology includes a variety of renewable raw materials and production technologies, and can be typically divided into HEFA (Hydro-processes Esters and Fatty Acids)-based, alcohol-based, and FT (Fischer-Tropsch)-based SAF. The HEFA method has already been commercialized and is most widely used, but if the bio-jet fuel market grows rapidly by producing liquid fuel through hydrogenation reaction using animal and vegetable fats and oils, bio-jet fuel production technology based on alcohol and FT-SAF technology is needed. In South Korea, plans are being made to demonstrate high-quality syngas production, advanced purification, and supply technology for the FT process that can produce large-capacity next-generation bio-jet fuel using lignocellulosic and herbaceous biomass. Aviation fuel is a very important business in the oil refining industry, and as the electrification of land transportation progresses rapidly, the importance of the next-generation bio-jet fuel market is expected to increase further. The total global biofuel market is expected to more than double by 2050, and demand for eco-friendly fuel is expected to increase significantly in the aviation and shipping sectors. In particular, SAF in the aviation sector will increase from 8 billion liters in 2025 to 4,490 in 2050. Rapid demand growth is expected to reach 100 million liters. In addition, clean hydrogen production technology based on bio-syngas is also being researched. In particular, the production of hydrogen and FT-SAF requires technology to increase hydrogen yield and a high level of impurity removal. The results of experimental research and feasibility analysis will be announced.