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Pratt & Whitney researches turbine biofuels

At England’s Farnborough Air Show, engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney Canada announced that it is leading an industry-university research effort to investigate the potential use of biofuels in small- and medium-sized turbine engines.

The fuels would not compete with human food sources and could include jatropha (a succulent plant) and algae-derived biofuels, as well as biobutanol, which is derived from the fermentation of livestock feeds.

“We aim to have a fuel-flexible engine and develop technologies that will allow us to offer aircraft manufacturers innovative and green power solution,” said Walter Di Bartolomeo, Pratt & Whitney Canada’s vice president of engineering.

The green fuels project will last four years and is sponsored by the governments of Canada and India.

AOPA ePublishing staff
AOPA ePublishing Staff editors are experienced pilots, flight instructors, and aircraft owners who have a passion for bringing you the latest news and AOPA announcements.

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