Shanghai, China – Web Desk: Chinese scientists have achieved a breakthrough in converting carbon dioxide — a major greenhouse gas — directly into jet fuel, offering a potential solution to both aviation emissions and fossil fuel dependence.
According to Chinese media reports, researchers at the Shanghai Advanced Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences have made significant progress in transforming CO2 into hydrocarbon-based aviation fuel.
The research involves converting carbon dioxide directly into hydrocarbons, which are the essential components of jet fuel. During the process, CO2 is mixed with water to create a liquid fuel suitable for aircraft.
Scientists are now planning to scale up the technology for commercial use beyond the laboratory. The findings were published in the journal ACS Catalysis.
The breakthrough comes at a time when global jet fuel prices have soared, particularly as supply has been disrupted during the US-Iran war. The technology could eventually help reduce reliance on crude oil while enabling carbon recycling.
Researchers noted that they overcame significant technical obstacles that had long prevented the efficient conversion of CO2 into usable hydrocarbons. If successfully commercialized, the technology could help lower dependence on raw fossil fuels and make carbon dioxide recycling possible.
The development aligns with China’s broader push for carbon neutrality and sustainable aviation solutions. No timeline for commercial rollout has been announced.
