Eliminating Adverse Impact of Copper Contamination in Jet Propellant 5 (JP-5) Fuel

As jet fuel flows through the CuNi fuel lines in aircraft fueling systems, copper (Cu) is dissolved into the fuel. The Cu contamination can reach up to 1 ppmw and these contaminants could catalyze oxidation reactions that cause hydrocarbons to decompose to elemental carbon and form deposits on the fuel lines, valves, injectors, and engine combustion chamber surfaces.TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) proposes developing a novel sorbent-based chemical filtration system to produce copper-free fuel for aircraft engines. In Phase I we identified a material that can effectively remove the Cu contaminants with a high capacity and uptake rate, which will enable development of a compact filter than can fit into the limited space available in the fuel handling system on an aircraft carrier. In Phase II, we will continue sorbent development. We will optimize the porosity and mechanical properties of the sorbent pellets while providing the strength needed to endure the stresses generated during storage, transport and handling. We will carry out high fidelity evaluations at full-scale to demonstrate the viability of the concept. We will also complete engineering analysis and design, and provide all details needed to successfully integrate the new filter to the aircraft carriers’ fueling system.