Biofuels: An Alternative to U.S. Air Force Petroleum Fuel Dependency
Abstract
The United States Air Force (USAF) is the largest energy consumer in the Department of Defense (DoD). Volatile oil prices force the USAF to divert money from training budgets and weapon system procurement accounts to cover increased costs due to unbudgeted fuel expenses. In conjunction with the President's mandate to reduce dependency on foreign procured oil and in an effort to stem unfunded fuel expenses, the USAF established an active alternative energy program focused on increased conservation and the development of new, domestic sources of fuel. This paper will examine biologically produced fuel alternatives and their ability to meet USAF jet fuel requirements by the year 2025. This paper examines ethanol, terrestrial produced biodiesel, algae oil, and biobutanol and each fuel's ability to meet JP-8 fuel standards while achieving compatibility with USAF aircraft and fuel distribution systems. Finally, the paper concludes with recommendations that support the continued development of biofuel technology to reduce USAF dependency on foreign procured oil.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA474843
Entities
People
- Mark S. Danigole
Organizations
- Air War College