Stay Ahead in Developing Green Energy Solutions with FAME Analysis for Jet Fuel

Biofuels, particularly biodiesel, are an attractive, cleaner energy solution and replacement for fossil fuels. Biodiesel, comprising fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) derived from vegetable oils and animal fats, offers a renewable alternative to traditional fossil fuels because it is significantly better for the environment and will move us towards a carbon-neutral society.

The growing importance of biofuels

In the transportation sector, which consumes up to 60% of the world’s oil reserves, biofuels, are gaining traction because the differences in physical and chemical properties between biodiesel and fossil fuels can be mitigated.

FAMEs (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters), while beneficial in biodiesel applications, can negatively impact jet fuel performance for several key reasons related to thermal stability, material compatibility, and combustion behavior—all critical in high-altitude aviation environments.

FAMEs commonly used in biodiesel (i.e. B100, B20) may cross-contaminate jet fuel during transportation and storage where infrastructure are shared. Even trace levels of FAMEs can compromise jet engine reliability and operational safety. This is why aviation standards (e.g., ASTM D1655, DEF STAN 91-091, IP 585) strictly limit FAME content in jet fuel, typically to 5 mg/kg, unless specifically certified for higher levels. In that case up to 50 mg/kg is allowed if the fuel is specifically tested and certified for it.

Advanced analytical techniques for FAMEs

For compliance with regulatory limits and ensuring safe aviation operations, accurate quantification of FAMEs in jet fuel is essential. For this task, the Thermo Scientific ISQ 7610 single quadrupole GC-MS system, equipped with the new XLXR detector, offers a robust solution. It delivers precise quantification over large concentration ranges without the need for multiple calibration curves, making it ideal for routine analysis in laboratories.

Methodology and results

IP 585 method, established by the Energy Institute, is commonly used to test for FAMEs in jet fuel using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). However, the use of the single quadrupole GC-MS offers several advantages in terms of speed of analysis, sensitivity and reliability, ensuring regulatory compliance. Calibration standards were prepared according to IP 585 method, using a stock solution containing various FAMEs. The ISQ 7610 GC-MS system, coupled with the Thermo Scientific TRACE 1610 GC and Thermo Scientific TRACE TR-FAME capillary column, provides efficient chromatographic separation and sensitive detection of FAMEs.

Using simultaneous full scan and targeted-selected ion monitoring (t-SIM) acquisition, the system achieved separation from the hydrocarbon matrix in kerosene with minimal impact on full scan analysis. Targeted compounds were efficiently separated in under 24 minutes, a 20-minute reduction in analysis time compared to Method IP 585. The proposed GC-MS method allowed for the quantification of FAMEs below 1 mg∙kg-1, providing trace-level sensitivity well below regulatory requirements.

Performance stability and efficiency

The ISQ 7610 system maintains ion source sensitivity and robustness with demonstrated stable performance over multiple injection sequences. For laboratories involved in the quality control of fuels, this stability is crucial. The system’s high linear dynamic response enabled accurate quantification using a single calibration curve, simplifying automated quality assurance/control procedures and enhancing productivity.

Recoveries of 5 and 50 mg∙kg-1 from spiked kerosene ranged from 87 to 94%, with accurate quantification made possible by the high linear dynamic response of the XLXR detector. The system’s stable response over a week with multiple injection sequences provided increased uptime and productivity.

Conclusion

You can achieve a highly robust, efficient, and sensitive methodology for the routine analysis of FAMEs in jet fuels with the ISQ 7610 single quadrupole GC-MS system, equipped with the XLXR detector and coupled to the TRACE 1610 GC. This system ensures compliance with regulatory limits, enhances laboratory productivity, and supports the transition to greener energy solutions. As the world continues to seek sustainable energy alternatives, advanced analytical techniques play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient implementation of biofuels. Stay ahead in developing green energy solutions by leveraging cutting-edge technology for accurate and reliable analysis.

Download the full application note, Stay ahead in developing green energy solutions: Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis for jet fuel using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, to discover how you can implement this advanced FAME analysis method in your laboratory.

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