New technology to convert methanol to SAF for aviation

ExxonMobil has unveiled ’Methanol to jet technology’, a new process technology to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from renewable methanol. With this technology, ExxonMobil has found a new way to convert methanol derived from the gasification of biomass and waste, captured carbon dioxide or lower-carbon hydrogen into SAF.

According to a report by Airport Technology, ExxonMobil, SAF produced from renewable methanol can play an important role in helping the aviation industry achieve the transition to a net-zero future. For ExxonMobil, the new technology and infrastructure helps grow its lower-emission fuel business.

The new solution also enhances ExxonMobil technologies that are engineered to manufacture SAF from biofeeds, such as used cooking oils, animal fats and vegetable oil. ExxonMobil stated: “’Methanol to jet technology’ is scalable and suitable for the conversion of methanol produced from today’s world-scale plants. The work necessary to qualify the resulting renewable jet fuel pathway has already started.”