ASTM releases draft spec for alternative jet fuels, in support of biofuel aviation tests

In Florida, ASTM International finalized a new draft spec for an alternative energy-based jet fuel. The new draft spec, provisionally called DXXXX, will be an alternative to the current D1655 jet fuel specification.

The draft spec will be presented for formal adoption by ASTM at its 2009 annual meeting in June, and is intended to create a framework for “drop-in” jet fuels, based on multiple alternative energy sources.

The spec covers “hydroprocessed renewable jet’ (HRJ) fuels” being used in trials by Japan Airlines, Continental, Virgin and Air New Zealand. The spec will also support up to 50 percent blends based on the Fischer-Tropsch process. Meanwhile, the current D1655 spec was modified to support coal-to-liquid fuels produce by SASOL in South Africa.

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