New tech converts factory's carbon emissions into fuel for jets

Scientists at RMIT University in Australia have developed a novel technology that simplifies the conversion of industrial carbon emissions into chemical building blocks for sustainable jet fuel. Unlike traditional methods that separate carbon capture and conversion into multiple energy-intensive steps, the RMIT team combined these processes into a single step, reducing energy consumption and complexity. This approach allows the system to operate effectively without requiring highly purified carbon dioxide, making it suitable for deployment near large industrial emission sources. To demonstrate industrial applicability, the researchers built and tested a 3-kilowatt prototype under real-world conditions, with plans to scale up to 20 kW and eventually a 100 kW commercial-scale system within six years. The technology aims to create a circular fuel economy by using emissions to produce jet fuel precursors, addressing the challenge of decarbonizing aviation—a sector where battery-powered alternatives remain inefficient for long-distance flights. While not a complete solution to emissions, the innovation offers a practical tool to help industries reduce their carbon footprint during the transition to