Decarbonization and the Use of Biofuels: Scientific and Technological Prospecting Applied to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20397/2177-6652/2026.v26i2.3303

Keywords:

Descarbonização; Combustível Sustentável de Aviação; Patentes.

Abstract

Objective

This study aims to analyze the scientific (articles) and technological (patents) production related to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), identifying the leading countries and Brazil’s relative position within this global scenario. Specifically, it seeks to assess Brazil’s standing in comparison with other nations in the emerging aviation biofuels market.

 

Methodological Procedures

The research employed bibliometric analysis and patent prospecting as complementary methods to map the evolution of the SAF market and identify the main global players. Data were collected from the CAPES database (scientific articles) and The Lens database (patents).

 

Relevance

With the advancement of decarbonization agendas, several economies have been transforming sectors intensive in carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, such as aviation. Recognized as a high-emission activity, aviation has been the focus of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which develops mechanisms for offsetting emission and decarbonization. In this context, SAF, produced from biomass or waste, stands out as a promising alternative for energy transition and the mitigation of environmental impacts.

 

Main Results

The results indicate a significant increase in scientific production over the past decade, particularly in the United States, China, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Brazil. Since 2020, innovations in SAF have grown, led by China, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Technologies mainly focus on feedstock production and hydrogen. Despite progress, Brazil still faces technological, regulatory, and economic challenges.

 

Theoretical/Methodological Contributions

The main contribution of this study lies in integrating scientific and technological analyses on a frontier topic that remains scarcely explored in literature.

Author Biographies

José Ricardo de Santana, Universidade Federal de Sergipe

Doutor em Economia de Empresas pela Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV/SP)

Marina Bezerra da Silva, Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Piauí

Doutora em Ciência da Propriedade Intelectual pela Universidade Federal de Sergipe (UFS)

Nash Stonny Cordeiro Wanderley, Universidade Federal de Sergipe

Doutorando em Ciência da Propriedade Intelectual pela Universidade Federal de Sergipe (UFS)

Lindomayara Fanca Ferreira, Instituto de Tecnologia e Pesquisa

Doutora em Economia pela Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora (UFJF)

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Published

2026-06-23

How to Cite

Santana, J. R. de, Silva, M. B. da, Stonny Cordeiro Wanderley, N., & Ferreira, L. F. (2026). Decarbonization and the Use of Biofuels: Scientific and Technological Prospecting Applied to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Revista Gestão & Tecnologia, 26(2), 150–187. https://doi.org/10.20397/2177-6652/2026.v26i2.3303

Issue

Vol. 26 No. 2 (2026)

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ARTIGOS

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