Zeon and Visolis launch a project to produce SAF from renewable biomass.

Japanese chemical producer Zeon and U.S. technology firm Visolis have signed a binding term sheet, advancing a significant project to produce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and bio-isoprene monomer. The partnership leverages renewable biomass as a feedstock, marking another step forward in the aviation industry's push for decarbonization.

This collaboration aims to address the growing demand for lower-carbon fuels as airlines work toward ambitious environmental targets. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), SAF is expected to provide approximately 65% of the emissions reduction needed for the aviation sector to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

A Strategic Move in a Growing Market

The project enters a market experiencing explosive growth. Global SAF production tripled in 2023 to 600 million liters, yet this still represented only about 0.3% of the world's total jet fuel usage, as noted by IATA. Market projections from sources like Fortune Business Insights estimate the SAF market could grow from around $2.7 billion in 2025 to over $40 billion by the mid-2030s, highlighting the immense opportunity for new producers.

By focusing on biomass, Zeon and Visolis are tapping into a key industry trend of using renewable sources like agricultural residues and waste materials. The resulting fuel is designed as a 'drop-in' solution, meaning it is fully compatible with existing aircraft engines and airport infrastructure once blended with conventional jet fuel and certified under standards like ASTM D7566.

Dual Products and Industry Impact

A unique aspect of this venture is the co-production of bio-isoprene monomer alongside SAF. Bio-isoprene is a crucial platform chemical used to manufacture synthetic rubber for products like tires and adhesives. This dual-output strategy enhances the economic viability of the biorefinery process, creating value from the same renewable feedstock.

The initiative supports global aviation goals set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), particularly under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). Airlines can use CORSIA-compliant SAF to meet their emissions reduction obligations.

This partnership between Zeon Corporation and Visolis represents a critical effort to scale up the production of alternative fuels. Successfully scaling these technologies is essential for the industry to meet regulatory mandates, such as the European Union's ReFuelEU Aviation initiative, and achieve its long-term sustainability objectives.

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