Abstract
The growing demand for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has driven innovation in alternative fuel technologies, with synthetic paraffinic kerosene (SPK) emerging as a viable candidate as it offers a reduction in environmental footprint compared to conventional fossil fuels. In this study, the feasibility of biomass-derived SPK was explored, utilizing corn stover as the process feedstock. The designed process integrates key thermochemical processes such as gasification, Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis, and hydrocracking, to convert corn stover into SPK. The process was simulated in commercial software Aspen Plus V12, where its material and energy flows were analyzed. Moreover, the Anderson-Schulz Flory distribution model was used to determine the FT product distribution. The simulation results show a 75 % molar conversion of carbon monoxide and a biomass-to-SPK conversion of 6 % was achieved. The sustainability of the developed process was assessed through its carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, with syngas cleaning reducing emissions by 30.70 %, resulting in a carbon footprint of 0.58 kg CO2/kg syngas. The remaining CO2 in the FT fuel underwent flashing and adsorption, enabling 63.27 % recovery for reuse in steam and power plants. Subsequently, the total capital investment, including working and fixed capitals, were estimated. The FT-SPK pathway was proven to be costly due to the energy-intensive processes. However, a positive ROI and a payback period within 5 y were achieved. The product selling prices were also ascertained alongside a breakeven analysis to ensure that the manufacturing operation remains economically viable.
