GS4 Student Scholars Symposium

The aviation industry seeks sustainable fuel alternatives to reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact. This study investigates the combustion characteristics of Hydro-processed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) compared to conventional Jet-A, evaluating its feasibility as an eco-friendly alternative. Fuel properties including freezing point, density, viscosity, and calorific value were analyzed using standardized methods. HEFA exhibits a lower heating value of 40.18 MJ/kg which is slightly lower than Jet-A. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that HEFA has higher volatility and a reduced secondary endothermic reaction. Constant Volume Combustion Chamber (CVCC) testing showed that HEFA has a shorter ignition delay (2.932 ms) and combustion delay (4.275 ms) than Jet-A (3.18ms and 4.829 ms respectively). It was also found that HEFA has a higher derived cetane number (DCN) than Jet-A at 55.8 compared to 49.47, indicating improved autoignition properties. These results highlight HEFA’s potential as a drop in sustainable aviation fuel for conventional Jet-A.