Aviation and air breathing missile fuels are characterized and controlled by specifications and by contract. Specifications for aviation fuels have historically been based primarily on usage requirements as opposed to detailed chemistry. Exceptions would be chemically derived, military fuels such as JP-10, as well as certain other missile fuels. Over the years aviation gasoline (Avgas) has become composed primarily of synthetic components, while turbine fuels are largely straight-run distillates and therefore depend on crude oil type for their primary characteristics. Synthetically derived hydrocarbons in the kerosene boiling range generally have properties that fall within the specification range for aviation turbine fuels. However, these fuels must meet rigorous engine and compatibility tests before they are accepted for use.

The reduction of the fire hazard of fuel is critical to improving survivability in impact-survivable aircraft accidents. Despite current fire prevention and mitigation approaches, fuel flammability can overwhelm post-crash fire scenarios. The Workshop on Aviation Fuels with Improved Fire Safety was held November 19-20, 1996 to review the current state of development, technological needs, and promising technology for the future development of aviation fuels that are most resistant to ignition during a crash. This book contains a summary of workshop discussions and 11 presented papers in the areas of fuel and additive technologies, aircraft fuel system requirements, and the characterization of fuel fires.

Aviation Fuels provides up-to-date data on fuel effects on combustion performance and use of alternative fuels in aircraft. This book covers the latest advances on aviation fuel technologies, including alternative fuels, feedstocks and manufacturing processes, combustion performance, chemical modeling, fuel systems compatibility and the technical and environmental challenges for implementing the use of alternative fuels for aviation. Aviation fuel and combustion researchers, academics, and program managers for aviation technologies will value this comprehensive overview and summary on the present status of aviation fuels. - Presents an overview on all relevant fields of aviation fuels, including production, approval, fuel systems compatibility and combustion (including emissions) - Discusses the environmental impacts and carbon footprint of alternative fuels - Features a chapter on electric flight and hydrogen powered aircraft and how its implementation will impact the aviation industry