Trinity College Dublin has announced a new collaboration with SMBC Aviation Capital to launch the Trinity College Dublin SAF Research Facility at SMBC Aviation Capital. This facility will advance research, development, and deployment of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), contributing to the reduction of aviation's environmental impact.

The new facility complements Trinity’s existing SAF projects, which collectively aim to improve air travel sustainability. Key initiatives include:

  1. Prescreening Services: Assisting new SAF producers in meeting ASTM D4054 fuel evaluation standards through the European Aviation Safety Authority's EU SAF Clearing House.

  2. Ryanair Partnership: Researching greenhouse gas reduction strategies and innovative technologies at the Ryanair Sustainable Aviation Research Centre.

  3. Aircraft Leasing Ireland Collaboration: Developing SAF production methods in Ireland in conjunction with the University of Limerick.

Trinity's SAF research spans several areas, including:

  • Greenhouse Gas Intensity: Assessing SAF’s potential to reduce aviation emissions.
  • Certification Properties: Guiding SAF producers through certification processes.
  • Zero-Carbon Propulsion Systems: Exploring novel propulsion technologies for low-carbon aviation.
  • Fleet Optimization: Enhancing future fleet efficiency with SAF integration.
  • Airport Noise Mapping: Reducing aviation noise impact on communities.
  • SAF Manufacturing in Ireland: Establishing efficient, sustainable SAF production methods locally.

Support from Science Foundation Ireland, the School of Engineering, and key personnel such as Professor Alan O’Connor and Dean of Research Prof. Sinead Ryan has been crucial in establishing the new facility and advancing these research initiatives.