Fuels and Combustion Research
NREL's fuels and combustion research provides the crucial connection between fuel properties and molecular structure, targeting fuel design and production with the right chemistry for the intended transportation application.
Our research helps the domestic biofuels and synthetic fuels industry continue to grow. We focus on research and development of high-performance fuels for on- and non-road vehicles, including aviation, rail, and maritime applications to accelerate a more affordable, reliable, efficient, and globally competitive U.S. transportation system.
Research and Development
We provide the scientific building blocks needed to catalyze commercialization of high-performance fuels through innovative fundamental fuels and combustion research and engineering.
Publications
NREL researchers publish journal articles, conference papers, and reports about fuels and combustion R&D.
Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines: Fuels Properties Database
Features a compilation of properties for various blendstock candidates, including pure compounds.
Fuel Performance
NREL and its industry partners focus on the intersection of fuel chemistry, fuel properties, and understanding of combustion to answer two primary questions:
- How can improved fuel chemistry lead to improved engine performance?
- Can we use fuel chemistry to predict engine performance and emissions while fuel development is still at low technology readiness level?
Transportation Fuels Innovation for the Future
NREL's depth of research in fuels and combustion, biofuels, and high-performance computing make it uniquely situated to tackle and anticipate some of the most complex challenges to expanding biofuels markets and providing value to consumers.
The resulting advances in fuel formulation, combustion strategy, and engine design will help develop more fuel-efficient vehicles for ground, air, and maritime transportation, accelerating a more affordable, reliable, and globally competitive U.S. transportation system.
Contact
Contact us to learn more about our fuels and combustion research or to explore partnership opportunities.
Senior Scientist and Manager, Fuels and Combustion Science
Share
Last Updated Nov. 20, 2025