Modeled economic potential for Eucalyptus spp. production for jet fuel additives in the United States

Feedstock price and availability remain a barrier to adoption of cellulosic biofuels. Eucalyptus spp., can produce an energy-dense terpene suitable for high-density synthetic hydrocarbon-type fuel (grade JP-10) production in addition to cellulosic-based feedstock for traditional jet fuels (e.g., gra...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Biomass & bioenergy 2020-12, Vol.143 (1), p.105807, Article 105807
Main Authors: Davis, Maggie R., Kainer, David, Tuskan, Gerald A., Langholtz, Matthew H., Hellwinckel, Chad M., Shedden, Magen, Eaton, Laurence
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
09 BIOMASS FUELS
Aviation biofuels
Bioenergy crops
Mallee eucalypts
Oil mallee
Short-rotation annual coppice
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Summary:Feedstock price and availability remain a barrier to adoption of cellulosic biofuels. Eucalyptus spp., can produce an energy-dense terpene suitable for high-density synthetic hydrocarbon-type fuel (grade JP-10) production in addition to cellulosic-based feedstock for traditional jet fuels (e.g., grade Jet A) and gasoline. This study modeled economic potential for Eucalyptus to fulfill US fuel markets. Cold-tolerant Eucalyptus was simulated in an annual coppice system for maximized leaf production. Results of the lowest simulated price ($110 t−1) show that within 10 years, there is potential to produce 204 million L yr−1 of fuel, including 51 million L yr−1 of JP-10-type fuel, 75 million L yr−1 of Jet A type fuel, and 77 million L yr−1 of gasoline. These quantities of fuel could be valued at approximately $500 million (USD), with feedstock costs totaling approximately $100 million (USD). Longer-term markets (to 20 years) or higher priced (to $220 t−1) scenarios show potential for more production. Research to determine potential for genetic improvement, delivered fuel costs, and biorefinery siting near existing infrastructure is recommended. •Economic potential for Eucalyptus spp. to fulfill US terpene and cellulosic fuel markets.•Annual coppice potential to produce 14.4 dry Mg ha−1 yr−1.•Production at 204 million L yr−1, valued at $500 million (USD), in 10 years.
ISSN:0961-9534
1873-2909
DOI:10.1016/j.biombioe.2020.105807