Enabling Biomanufactured Jet Fuels and Chemicals via Arrested Anaerobic Digestion of Organic Wastes to Volatile Fatty Acids

Members: Iowa State University, Kansas State University, Quasar Energy Group

In this project, Iowa State University with partners Kansas State University and Quasar Energy Group will develop methods to scale-up the conversion and recovery of fatty acids precursors for biomanufactured aviation fuel, such as butyric and hexanoic acids, through bioaugmented thermophilic anaerobic digestion and a novel anaerobic membrane bioreactor, respectively.

The outcome of this project will aid the pilot-scale process development for aviation fuel production from organic wastes, e.g., fats, oils, and grease. A key deliverable is a conceptual engineering design or model of a commercial scale biorefinery. The project team aims to integrate advanced biomanufacturing technologies, involving bioaugmentation strategies through the addition of specific microbes with relevant biodegrading capacities into the anaerobic digestion system, with EWD initiatives. A comprehensive TEA-LCA report will also be provided.

Project dates: 2025 – present

Funding source: U.S. Department of Defense