A novel approach for reduction of total acidity in kerosene based on alkaline rich materials readily available in tropical and sub-tropical countries

The inability of refineries in some nations globally to produce kerosene locally as an aviation fuel is due to its acidity. In this study the viability of selected alkaline rich ash materials (e.g. cocoa husk, cassava peels, etc.) readily obtainable in tropical nations were examined for their ability to remove the acids. Fresh acidic kerosene samples were equilibrated with different ashes in predetermined ratios, filtered and characterized alongside with non-treated reference samples. Results revealed that the physicochemical properties of non-treated and treated kerosene remained the same except for conductivity, total acidity and micro-separation. The total acidity was reduced to a lowest limit than 0.015 mg KOH/g required. Treatment studies with specific masses of ashes and kerosene reduced acidity to approximately 0.00 mg KOH/g. Overall these alkaline source materials should be seen as a promising and alternative option in the systematic reduction of acidity in kerosene for aviation use.