Can Biofuels be Used for Small and Medium Sized Engine Applications

Pratt & Whitney Canada is leading a groundbreaking aerospace industry-university research effort to investigate the potential use of biofuels for small and medium size engine applications.

P&WC is evaluating the feasibility of using "second generation" biofuels that originate from sources that do not compete with human food sources. These could include jatropha and algae derived biofuels, as well as biobutanol to power aircraft engines.

"Already a leader in green technologies for small aviation engines, we aim to have a fuel-flexible engine and to develop technologies that will allow us to offer aircraft manufacturers innovative and green power solutions," said Walter Di Bartolomeo, vice president – Engineering, P&WC."

The objectives for the four-year project include identifying and assessing appropriate biofuels, studying their effect on engine components such as combustors and fuel systems, developing appropriate technologies and design changes to accommodate them, and conducting tests comparing current jet fuels with first generation ethanol, as well as second generation biofuels.

The alternative fuel project is one of several initiatives announced recently by the governments of Canada and India under a joint research collaboration agreement in the field of science and technology. The Canadian portion is being funded through the International Science and Technology Partnerships Program.

P&WC is managing the project and dedicating resources at its research centres in Longueuil, Quebec and Mississauga, Ontario to look into engine components and materials changes. Infotech Enterprises Ltd. and two major Indian oil companies will share in this effort. Four Canadian institutions, McGill University, Laval University, Ryerson University and National Research Council Canada are also participating, along with the Indian Institute of Technology, Science and Petroleum.

P&WC has previously undertaken extensive research into alternative jet fuel blends using shale and tar sand oil derived products, as well as hydrogen.

"We are very pleased about launching this study of biofuels for small aircraft engines," said Sam Sampath, manager and Senior Fellow, Combustion Engineering and Emissions Control, P&WC, who is leading the research project. "Our goal is to develop technologies for fuel flexible gas turbine engines, which can operate with a variety of biofuels and mixtures using the same hardware."

Tell Us What You Think

Do you have a review, update or anything you would like to add to this news story?

Leave your feedback
Your comment type
Submit

While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.

Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.

Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.

Read the full Terms & Conditions.