Lead Memory in General Aviation Aircraft Engine Emissions

Abstract

There is interest from environmental organizations and regulating agencies to eliminate lead and reduce pollutants emitted into the atmosphere from general aviation aircraft using 100LL aviation gasoline (Avgas). 100SF (Swift Fuel) is under development by Swift Enterprises as a lead free general aviation alternative fuel product. The purpose of this study is to determine the amount of time required for engines to be free of lead emissions when first introduced to operation using 100SF. This study also investigated the lead cleansing decay profiles of the aircraft engines under 100SF initial operations. Results of this study revealed that a mean engine run time of 21minutes and 20 seconds was needed before aircraft engines were free of measurable lead at a 15ppm limit of detection. Results lend support for 100SF as a lead free alternative fuel source that also acts as a lead cleanser for general aviation aircraft engines.