Powering the Next Era of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

The aviation industry is entering a defining decade.

With global mandates accelerating and production pathways expanding, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has become central to decarbonizing flight. From HEFA and Fischer-Tropsch to Alcohol-to-Jet and emerging Power-to-Liquid technologies, innovation is moving fast—but certification, performance, and safety remain non-negotiable.

At the heart of this transition is one critical need: accurate and reliable fuel evaluation.

The IQT® (Ignition Quality Tester) is powering this next era of SAF by giving researchers, fuel producers, and standards organizations the ability to confidently measure ignition quality—one of the most important indicators of combustion performance. From early-stage research to ASTM qualification, IQT enables faster development, better data, and more confident decisions.

Description

Why IQT for SAF Testing?

As SAF pathways evolve, so do the challenges associated with evaluating them. Unlike conventional fuels, SAF candidates often vary widely in composition, ignition behavior, and availability.

The IQT platform addresses these challenges in ways no other system can:

1. Proven Role in SAF Qualification

IQT supports ASTM D6890, the recognized method for Derived Cetane Number (DCN), which is used within ASTM D4054—the global standard for evaluating new aviation fuels. DCN plays a key role in screening for combustion behavior and lean blowout risk, a critical safety parameter in aviation.

2. Designed for Limited Sample Volumes

Early-stage SAF development often produces only small quantities of fuel. IQT enables:

• Full DCN analysis with as little as 10 mL
• Partial analysis with just 5 mL

This makes it ideal for pilot plants, universities, and emerging fuel programs.

3. Flexible Across SAF Pathways

IQT has demonstrated performance across a wide range of fuels, including:

•   HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids)
•   Fischer-Tropsch fuels
•   Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ)
•   Power-to-Liquid (PtL)
•   Synthetic and blended aviation fuels

4. Globally Trusted Platform

From leading research institutions to commercial labs, IQT is used worldwide as the benchmark for ignition quality testing, supporting both aviation and broader renewable fuel development.

View Product on IQT Website