TRACE METAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUELS USING TXRF Cadance Price, Applied Biology Ileana Banatlao , Forensic Biology Isabella Piwowar, Forensic Biology Megan Makishima , Applied Biology Joselyn Bruce , Aerospace Engineering
Kylette Garcia , Forensic Biology Nyomi Garza , Forensic Biology Savanah Furr , Forensic Biology Tatiana Gomez , Forensic Biology
MENTORS Teresa Eaton, Biology and Chemistry Rachael Schmidt , Biology and Chemistry
Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) are emerging as drop-in alternatives to conventional jet fuel while maintaining compatibility with existing aircraft and fuel infrastructure. However, trace metal contaminants introduced during production, processing, or handling can negatively impact fuel stability, thermal performance, and engine and emissions control components. This collaborative research effort between Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Boeing investigates trace metal composition in SAFs and related bio-derived fuel materials using Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence (TXRF), a sensitive analytical technique capable of detecting elemental contaminants at parts-per-million to parts-per- billion (ppm–ppb) levels. Industry-sourced fuel samples are analyzed to establish baseline elemental profiles, assess variability across production pathways, and evaluate the suitability of TXRF as a rapid, non-destructive screening method for aviation fuels. The project emphasizes analytical method development, quality control, and comparative analysis to support reliable detection of low-level metal contaminants. Findings from this work aim to inform fuel qualification efforts and support the safe integration of SAFs into commercial aviation.
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76 | URI DISCOVERY 2026
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