Simple Group-Type Analyses of Aviation Fuels

Significance of the Topic

Group-type analysis of aviation fuels is critical for understanding how chemical composition influences key performance attributes such as energy density, combustion stability, and storage longevity. As sustainable alternative fuels (SAF) enter the market, rapid and accurate characterization ensures compliance with industry standards and supports the development and certification process.

Objectives and Overview of the Study

This application snapshot aims to demonstrate the use of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with flow modulation (GC×GC-FID) for group-type analysis of a standard aviation reference fuel versus a Fischer-Tropsch synthetic paraffinic kerosene (FT-SPK). The study compares hydrocarbon class distributions to highlight differences between conventional and synthetic jet fuels.

Methodology and Instrumentation Usage

The analysis employed a LECO Paradigm GC×GC system with flow modulation, configured in reverse phase mode (polar first-dimension column, non-polar second-dimension column) and flame ionization detection (FID). This setup enhances the separation of paraffins, isoparaffins, naphthenes, and aromatics that are difficult to resolve using conventional one-dimensional GC.

Main Results and Discussion

Comparison of hydrocarbon class distributions revealed:

• Aviation reference fuel: 21.4% n-paraffins; 24.4% isoparaffins; 32.9% naphthenes; 19.1% monoaromatics; 2.1% diaromatics.
• FT-SPK: 0.9% n-paraffins; 75.3% isoparaffins; 5.0% naphthenes; 18.5% monoaromatics; 0.3% diaromatics.

These findings underscore the predominance of branched paraffins in synthetic fuels and the distinct hydrocarbon fingerprints captured by GC×GC-FID.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

Using flow-modulated GC×GC-FID provides:

• High-resolution profiling of complex fuel matrices.
• Cost-effective instrumentation and consumables.
• Accurate quantification of group types critical for fuel certification.
• Rapid screening suitable for routine QA/QC labs.

Laboratories assessing conventional and SAF formulations gain actionable insights into performance-related properties and regulatory compliance.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advancements may include integration with mass spectrometry for structural identification, automated data analytics powered by machine learning, and expansion to biofuel and hydrogenated feedstock analysis. Such developments will further streamline SAF qualification workflows and support evolving regulatory frameworks.

Conclusion

Flow-modulated GC×GC-FID on a LECO Paradigm system offers a robust, accessible approach for detailed group-type analysis of aviation fuels. The clear differentiation between conventional and Fischer-Tropsch synthetic kerosene underscores its value for fuel development, certification, and quality control.

Reference

LECO Corporation. Simple Group-Type Analyses of Aviation Fuels. Application Snapshot, Form No. 209-200-175, October 2023.