ExxonMobil debuts new e-methanol to jet technology as new route for sustainable jet fuel

In Texas, ExxonMobil has revealed a new process technology to enable the manufacture of sustainable aviation fuel from renewable methanol. 

ExxonMobil is focused on growing its lower-emission fuels business by leveraging technology and infrastructure. This expands upon ExxonMobil’s suite of technology solutions that are engineered to manufacture SAF from other biofeeds. 

Now, methanol derived from the gasification of biomass and waste, as well as from lower-carbon hydrogen and captured carbon dioxide (CO₂), can be converted into SAF using ExxonMobil’s methanol to jet proprietary process technology and catalysts. Preliminary estimates by ExxonMobil suggest that this solution has a higher yield of jet fuel than other options. The ExxonMobil solution also provides the flexibility to use a mix of alcohols as feedstock and produce renewable diesel and lower-carbon chemical feedstocks. 

Additionally, ExxonMobil has process technology and catalysts that are available to customers today which convert other renewable biofeeds, such as used cooking oils, animal fats, and vegetable oil, into renewable jet fuel. Our analysis shows that our BIDWTM isomerization catalyst provides a jet fuel yield advantage versus alternatives currently available. 

“SAF produced from renewable methanol can play an important role in helping the aviation industry achieve the transition to a net-zero future. Reaching that goal by 2050 will require a multi-faceted approach, including advancements in aircraft-related technology, changes to infrastructure and operations, and a dramatic increase in SAF supply. Our process technology can be an important step in this direction,” said Russ Green, ExxonMobil’s lower-emission fuels venture executive.