Axens is leading the way in developing a diverse range of technologies for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a vital alternative to fossil jet fuel and a cornerstone of aviation’s decarbonisation strategy. SAF can be produced from renewable or waste-derived bio-based resources or through captured CO₂ combined with low-carbon hydrogen, generated using renewable or low-carbon electricity.
As a drop-in fuel, SAF seamlessly integrates with existing aviation infrastructure, offering an immediate solution for reducing emissions without major overhauls to equipment or infrastructure.
The production of SAF involves multiple pathways, each tailored to specific feedstocks, local conditions and regulatory landscapes. Central to these pathways is low-carbon hydrogen, which not only drives key chemical reactions, but also plays a critical role in lowering production costs and minimising carbon emissions. This article examines three key SAF production processes, explores their hydrogen requirements and delves into how evolving regulations and cost dynamics shape their competitiveness.
Hydrogen’s role in three SAF...
