WP4 involve collaboration between Lund University’s Faculty of Engineering (LTH), RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Saab, GKN, Siemens Energy, and Topsoe. The focus is on evaluating the use of bio-based fuels for aviation and stationary gas turbines in terms of material compatibility, storage, transportation, and usage. The initiative addresses the unique challenges posed by the different chemical compositions of bio-based fuels compared to conventional fossil fuels, including their effects on lubrication properties, elastomer interactions, deposit formation, and corrosion potential.
Task 1 Lubrication: A key concern is the impact of these bio-based fuels on the lubrication of fuel system components, such as pumps and valves, necessitating investigations into viscosity variations and potential solutions for any identified lubrication deficiencies. This task will leverage standard tests like ASTM D5001 and the Brugger test to explore the relationship between fuel properties and lubricity.
Task 2 Soft material interactions: A significant area of study is the interaction between alternative fuels and soft materials, notably elastomers used in seals. A Master’s thesis initiated at LTH in September 2023, with support from Saab, aims to assess the compatibility of alternative jet fuels with elastomer seals, focusing on swelling behavior. A novel test method, developed at the University of Dayton, is being applied for rapid assessment of elastomer swelling. Thesis was successfully presented and defended, 2024-03-26.
Task 3 Deposits and corrosion: Studies of the risks of deposits and corrosion from fuel combustion, which are linked to the presence of trace metals in fuels. This analysis will contribute to understanding how specific metal ions can catalyze the decomposition of fuel molecules, affecting storage and operational reliability. Standard methods like ASTM D7111, D8110-17, UOP 389, and the Jet Fuel Thermal Oxidation Test (JFTOT) will be utilized for early evaluation of bio-based turbine fuel candidates.
Figure WP4. (a) Set up of optical dilatometer. (b) Image processing of o-ring cross sections. (c) Example nitrile rubber elastomer fuel swelling graph.
The project is carried out with support from the Swedish Energy Agency. LTH, Lund University, is the coordinating partner of CESTAP.
