Unlocking the Commercialization of SAF Through Integration of Industry 4.0: A Technological Perspective

Sajad Ebrahimi (), Jing Chen, Raj Bridgelall, Joseph Szmerekovsky and Jaideep Motwani
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Sajad Ebrahimi: Management Department, Seidman College of Business, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, MI 49401, USA
Jing Chen: Barney School of Business, University of Hartford, West Hartford, CT 06117, USA
Raj Bridgelall: Department of Transportation and Supply Chain Management, College of Business, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
Joseph Szmerekovsky: Department of Transportation and Supply Chain Management, College of Business, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
Jaideep Motwani: Management Department, Seidman College of Business, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, MI 49401, USA

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 16, 1-44

Abstract: Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has demonstrated significant potential to reduce carbon emissions in the aviation industry. Multiple national and international initiatives have been launched to accelerate SAF adoption, yet large-scale commercialization continues to face technological, operational, and regulatory barriers. Industry 4.0 provides a suite of advanced technologies that can address these challenges and improve SAF operations across the supply chain. This study conducts an integrative literature review to identify and synthesize research on the application of Industry 4.0 technologies in the production and distribution of SAF. The findings highlight that technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, digital twins, and 3D printing can enhance feedstock logistics, optimize conversion pathways, improve certification and compliance processes, and strengthen overall supply chain transparency and resilience. By mapping these applications to the six key workstreams of the SAF Grand Challenge, this study presents a practical framework linking technological innovation to both strategic and operational aspects of SAF commercialization. Integrating Industry 4.0 solutions into SAF production and supply chains contributes to reducing life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, strengthens low-carbon energy systems, and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13). The findings from this research offer practical guidance to policymakers, industry practitioners, investors, and technology developers seeking to accelerate the global shift toward carbon neutrality in aviation.

Keywords: Industry 4.0; sustainable aviation fuel; sustainable supply chains; technology adoption; SDG (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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