BA, Rolls-Royce start search for alternative fuels
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British Airways (BA) and Rolls-Royce have announced the start of a scientific test programme into finding alternative fuels for the aviation industry. In a joint-statement release yesterday, the two aviation giants said that they intend to identify practical, more ecologically sound alternatives to the current fuel, kerosene.
The companies will invite suppliers to offer alternative fuel samples for testing on a Rolls-Royce engine from a BA Boeing 747. The tests will be carried out at the Rolls-Royce factory in Derby, UK, with the shortlist eventually being narrowed down to four fuels. All testing is expected to be complete by the end of March 2009 after which the results will be reported.
Ric Parker, Director of Research and Technology at Rolls-Royce, emphasised that the fuels must be environmentally sustainable. “The key criteria for the selection of the alternative fuels will be their suitability, sustainability and industrial capability.” Parker said. “It is critical that the fuel can not only do the job required of it, but can also offer a CO2 benefit and be produced without a detrimental impact to food, land or water. There must also be clear evidence of the potential for mass production and global distribution of an alternative fuel to support the world’s aviation industry,” he added.
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