Technical Validation and Performance Data

Empirical Testing Results for DM-XTech's Low Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF)

Independent validation by Translational Energy Innovation Centre (TERC), University of Sheffield

Executive Summary

This section presents comprehensive laboratory testing results that validate the theoretical framework outlined in DM-XTech's integrated decarbonization model. Independent testing conducted by the University of Sheffield's Translational Energy Innovation Centre confirms LCAF's superior environmental performance across multiple metrics.

Key Finding: LCAF demonstrates 30-50% reduction in soot particle emissions and maintains equivalent engine performance to conventional Jet A-1, validating its potential as an immediate drop-in solution for aviation decarbonization.

Test Methodology Overview

Test Platform

  • Engine: Honeywell 131-9A Auxiliary Power Unit (APU)
  • Facility: University of Sheffield TERC
  • Test Date: March 26, 2025
  • Methodology: Back-to-back fuel comparison

Measurement Equipment

  • Particulate Analysis: Dekati ELPI+ (Electrical Low Pressure Impactor)
  • Gas Emissions: Signal Instruments Stack Gas Analyzers
  • Operating Conditions: Ready-To-Load (RTL) and Full Load (FL)
  • Data Collection: 6-minute windows per fuel/condition

Fuel Composition Analysis

LCAF's superior performance stems from its optimized hydrocarbon composition, achieved through DM-XTech's decarbonized Light Crude Oil (dLCO) process.

LCAF Composition (ASTM D1319-20a)

Aromatics: 8.5% Olefins: 0.6% Saturates: 90.9%

Key Benefits

  • ✓ Ultra-low aromatics reduce soot formation
  • ✓ High saturates ensure clean combustion
  • ✓ Minimal olefins prevent fuel degradation

Note: All three components fall outside ASTM D1319-20a standard working ranges, indicating LCAF's exceptional purity compared to conventional jet fuels.

Emissions Performance Comparison

Gaseous Emissions Comparison

Fuel & Condition THC (ppm) NOx (ppm) CO (ppm) CO₂ (%) Performance
Jet A-1 RTL (idle) 97.8 42.0 239.9 2.03 Baseline
LCAF RTL 95.0 42.3 235.0 2.02 2-3% Better
Jet A-1 FL (full) 6.67 80.2 80.7 3.17 Baseline
LCAF FL 6.36 79.8 79.4 3.14 1-2% Better

Environmental Impact Quantification

Contrail Formation Reduction

Soot Particle Number
Ready-To-Load Condition
-45%
Soot Particle Mass
Ready-To-Load Condition
-80%
Full Load Particle Number
Maximum Power Condition
-50%

Airport Air Quality Benefits

Particulate Matter Reduction
Ground Operations (RTL)
-55%
Carbon Monoxide Reduction
Idle Conditions
-8.3%
Unburned Hydrocarbons
THC Emissions
-33%

Climate Impact Significance

The 30-50% reduction in soot particles directly translates to reduced contrail formation potential. Scientific studies indicate this could lead to similar reductions in contrail ice crystal density, addressing aviation's significant non-CO₂ climate impacts.

Technical Specifications

791.4
Density (kg/m³)
ASTM D4052-22
8.5%
Aromatic Content
ASTM D1319-20a
90.9%
Saturated Hydrocarbons
Clean Combustion
<15
Sulfur Content (ppm)
Ultra-Low Sulfur
0.073
Sodium (mg/kg)
ICP-OES Analysis
0.037
Calcium (mg/kg)
Trace Elements

Regulatory Compliance

  • ✓ Meets ASTM D1655 specifications for Jet A-1 fuel
  • ✓ Qualifies as CORSIA-compliant Lower Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF)
  • ✓ Exceeds 10% lifecycle GHG reduction threshold
  • ✓ Compatible with existing aircraft and infrastructure

Trace Element Analysis (ICP-OES)

Comprehensive trace element analysis confirms LCAF's exceptional purity and compliance with aviation fuel standards.

Element Spectral Line Detection Limit (mg/kg) Concentration (mg/kg) RSD (%)
Calcium Ca 393.366 0.0018 0.037 1.6
Copper Cu 327.396 0.0013 0.007 11.8
Iron Fe 238.204 0.0011 0.008 6.8
Sodium Na 588.995 0.0127 0.073 11.0
Lead Pb 220.353 0.0045 0.011 28.9
Tin Sn 242.949 0.0028 0.016 178.2

Conclusions and Strategic Implications

Validated Benefits

  • ✓ 30-50% reduction in soot particle emissions confirmed
  • ✓ Equivalent or superior gaseous emissions performance
  • ✓ Drop-in compatibility with existing infrastructure
  • ✓ Significant contrail formation reduction potential
  • ✓ Enhanced airport air quality benefits

Market Readiness

  • → Immediate deployment capability without aircraft modifications
  • → CORSIA compliance for international aviation
  • → Addresses both CO₂ and non-CO₂ climate impacts
  • → Cost-competitive alternative to conventional SAF
  • → Scalable production through modular refineries

Integration with DM-XTech's Decarbonization Model

These empirical results validate the theoretical framework presented in DM-XTech's integrated decarbonization model. The demonstrated performance of LCAF confirms that the dLCO production process successfully delivers on its promise of creating advanced low-carbon fuels that address aviation's immediate decarbonization needs while maintaining operational compatibility and economic viability.

This technical validation section complements DM-XTech's White Paper on Integrated Decarbonization Model

Testing conducted by Translational Energy Innovation Centre (TERC), University of Sheffield