Gevo, Inc. and Axens have announced an expanded strategic alliance to accelerate the development and commercialization of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using the ethanol-to-jet (ETJ) pathway. The partnership aims to leverage Axens’ industry-leading Jetanol™ technology, integrating their proven solutions to de-risk and streamline SAF production. By combining their technical expertise and experience in plant integration, the companies seek to optimize ETJ processes and drive cost-effective, large-scale production.

As part of this collaboration, Gevo and Axens are also working together to advance Gevo’s next-generation ethanol-to-olefins (ETO) technology. This innovative process converts ethanol into light olefins, which can then be transformed into transportation fuels using commercially established oligomerization and hydrogenation technologies. By accelerating ETO commercialization, the companies aim to improve process efficiency, reduce production costs, and enhance the competitiveness of SAF compared to fossil fuels, while capitalizing on emerging carbon markets.

“The combination of Axens’ Jetanol™ technology with Gevo’s expertise in process development and business systems delivers a commercially viable and cost-effective SAF solution,” said Dr. Paul Bloom, Chief Business Officer for Gevo. “Expanding our collaboration to include ETO technology aligns with our mission to lower costs and drive the large-scale adoption of renewable fuels.”

The partnership builds on the companies’ previous successful collaboration in ETJ technology and includes cooperation with IFP Energies nouvelles (IFPEN) to finalize the development and commercial deployment of Gevo’s ETO process. This next-generation technology is expected to achieve zero carbon intensity or better, further strengthening the environmental benefits of SAF.

Gevo is set to lead the deployment of its ETO technology in North America, creating high-quality jobs and driving economic development in rural communities. Axens will provide process licensing, catalysts, equipment, and engineering services worldwide. “The immense potential for both our companies to lead the future of air travel decarbonization is clear,” said Quentin Debuisschert, CEO of Axens. “By combining Gevo’s market expertise and project development capabilities with Axens’ cutting-edge Jetanol™ technology, we expect rapid adoption of the ETJ pathway. The commercialization of ETO will position us at the forefront of the renewable fuels market, offering end-users and developers the most efficient solutions.”

Dr. Pat Gruber, CEO of Gevo, emphasized the broader economic and environmental impact of the partnership. “Lowering production and capital costs for drop-in hydrocarbon fuels can create jobs, support rural economies, and promote regenerative agriculture. This approach enhances energy security, optimizes existing fuel infrastructure, and delivers measurable sustainability improvements. We are committed to making this vision a reality because it is the right thing to do.”

By advancing ETJ and ETO technologies, Gevo and Axens are poised to play a leading role in the transition to sustainable, low-carbon transportation fuels, contributing to a cleaner and more resilient energy future.