(20e) Feed-Flexible Processing of Oil-Rich Crops to Jet Fuel

UOP is leading a project to demonstrate the efficient conversion of vegetable and other natural oils to jet fuel. The goal of the project, which is funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), is to develop and commercialize a process to produce Jet Propellant 8 (JP-8), which is used by U.S. and NATO militaries.

Approximately 4.5 billion gallons of JP-8 fuel are used by the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army and NATO annually. The kerosene-based, high-performance fuel is less flammable and less hazardous than other fuel options, allowing for better safety and combat survivability. In addition to jets, JP-8 is also used to fuel heaters, stoves, tanks, and other vehicles in military service. Commercial airliners use Jet A and Jet A-1, which is also kerosene-based.

UOP is working with Honeywell Aerospace, Cargill Inc., Arizona State University, Sandia National Laboratories and Southwest Research Institute on the 18-month project which will be completed by the end of 2008. Fuel produced by the new process will have to meet stringent military specifications and is expected to achieve high energy efficiency for maximum conversion of feed to fuel, reduced waste and reduced production costs. The technology will be viable for future use in the production of jet fuel for commercial jets.

The jet fuel technology builds upon the UOP/Eni EcofiningTM process, which was developed by UOP and European energy company Eni to convert vegetable oils and waste into a high-cetane green diesel fuel with low emissions and high efficiency. The new jet fuel process produces a paraffinic fuel that meets JP-8 specifications, and therefore aligns with today's standard refinery practices, a key focus of UOP's Renewable Energy and Chemicals business unit. The presentation will discuss the progress towards the project goals.