Research advances and future perspectives in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis for sustainable aviation fuel

Abstract

Amid growing global concerns over climate change, the aviation industry is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development. Current studies confirm that Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has become a central strategic measure for reducing carbon emissions intensity and mitigating environmental impacts throughout the fuel's life cycle. Among various production pathways, Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) is widely considered one of the most promising routes for near-term industrial-scale SAF deployment, owing to its high technological maturity and well-established scalability. This article provides a systematic review of the relationship between the composition and content of jet fuel components and their physicochemical properties. It further interprets the technical requirements specified in the ASTM International standard ASTM D7566, Standard Specification for Aviation Turbine Fuels Containing Synthesized Hydrocarbons, with particular emphasis on FTS-derived synthetic jet fuels. Based on current research progress, the paper concludes with a summary and outlook on future technological directions for sustainable aviation fuels.