Alternative Microturbine Fuels Feasibility Study Through Thermal Stability, Material Compatibility, and Engine Testing

Historically, gas turbine fuels have been procured based on availability and low cost criteria. However,in the past few decades, with the growing concern over the negative environmental impacts produced by emissions, alternative fuels have been developed and tested under the objective of reducing such negative effects. The physical properties and broad chemical composition of fuels, including trace elements, may result in engine performance issues found only after extensive operation. This, in turn, results in higher maintenance and operation costs. This paper studies the feasibility of several renewable fuels for microturbine application, identifying key relationships between the physical and chemical properties, thermal stability, materials compatibility, and turbine performance.