Gevo has signed an engineering and consulting agreement with Mustang Engineering LP (Mustang) to convert Gevo’s renewable isobutanol to biojet fuel. The first step will be to focus on the downstream processing of isobutanol to kerosene (jet fuel) and from there to test the fuel in jet engines as well as in commercial planes.

“Our work with Mustang is another important step in the development of our biojet fuel business and Mustang is an ideal partner to advance our efforts in this important market,” said Dr. Patrick Gruber, CEO of Gevo.”Their refining and chemicals industries engineering and project management expertise will help us bring an integrated, turnkey solution to the refining industry.”

Gevo has also disclosed that its “fit for purpose” testing at the Air Force Research Laboratory continues and they anticipate releasing a final report in June. Once this “fit to purpose” testing has been completed successfully Gevo will begin jet engine testing with various engine manufacturers.

“The advent of the jet fuel carbon tax on international flights landing in the European Union is motivating the airline industry and fuel suppliers to seek cost-effective, renewable alternatives to petroleum jet fuel,” said Scott Baker, executive vice president of Mustang’s Process Plants and Industrial business unit. “Mustang is excited about this opportunity to further support Gevo in the development of the next generation of alternative fuels. The processing steps required to make this bio-jet fuel lend themselves well to integration into refineries and petrochemical facilities.”