IHI launches sustainable aviation fuel test rig in Singapore
IHI Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, and its Singapore-based subsidiary IHI Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. have inaugurated a new bench-scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) test rig in partnership with the A*STAR Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE²).
The test rig, capable of producing 5 kg of SAF per day, marks a significant step towards the direct conversion of CO₂ into liquid hydrocarbons, streamlining production and improving energy efficiency.
This cutting-edge initiative aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) goal of achieving net-zero CO₂ emissions in aviation by 2050. The innovative SAF production process leverages advanced catalysts and simplifies operations, potentially transforming the aviation fuel industry by reducing reliance on conventional fossil fuels.
The launch event on January 15 showcased IHI’s commitment to advancing sustainable technologies. Guests included government representatives and stakeholders from the SAF value chain, who witnessed IHI’s latest advancements and its roadmap to commercialisation by 2030.
The collaboration between IHI and A*STAR ISCE² began in 2022, resulting in the development of a world-class catalyst for SAF production. The new test rig will now evaluate the catalyst’s performance and durability, providing vital data to refine operating conditions and verify the end-to-end SAF production process.
IHI’s ultimate goal is to achieve ASTM certification—a crucial regulatory milestone for commercialising SAF—by the latter half of the 2020s. This development underscores the company’s commitment to global sustainability goals, supporting the transition to greener aviation fuels.
By integrating innovation and collaboration, IHI is positioning itself as a leader in the pursuit of sustainable aviation, bringing the industry closer to a low-carbon future.
