Emission characteristics of IVOCs and organic particulate matter from 100% SAF-powered aviation piston engine under LTO cycle

Accurately characterizing organic pollutants, especially gas- and particulate- phase Intermediate-Volatility Organic Compounds (IVOCs) from general Aviation Piston Engine (APE), is crucial for quantifying organic Particulate Matter (PM) contributions, formulating emission control strategies, and integrating regulations into the aviation system. In this study, the emission characteristics of conventional aviation fuel and 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) were evaluated. We simulated APE operation under Landing-Take Off (LTO) cycle conditions, focusing on analyzing IVOCs composition and organic PM modal distribution. Results showed that as engine thrust increased, the mass Emission Factors (EF_m) of IVOCs for all three fuels significantly decreased, with SAF showing the most notable emission reduction. Its weighted average EF_m value was 59.69% and 51.38% lower than Diesel and RP3, respectively. In-depth research on IVOCs distribution patterns also showed that SAF reduced emissions of C9-C20 but slightly promoted C21-C25 formation. Meanwhile, SAF effectively reduced emissions of 2–3-ring, 4-ring, and 5–6-ring Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs). Notably, organic PM mainly consisted of nucleation mode particles, with IVOCs contributing over 62%. These findings offer core data for incorporating IVOCs and nucleation mode particles into future organic PM emission regulations.