Jet kerosene is a blend of hydrocarbons with molecules typically containing 8 to 16 carbon atoms obtained from the middle distillate group in crude oil distillation. The fuel is used in aircraft powered by gas turbine engines.
The Jet A-1 fuel has a higher specification than normal kerosene with a relatively high flash point making it safer to handle than other jet fuels. The Jet A-1 also has a higher freezing point and contains antistatic additives to dissipate static electricity and prevent sparking. Other additives include antioxidants to prevent gumming, corrosion inhibitors, biocides and icing inhibitors.
Jet kerosene also requires a low smoke point. The kerosene fraction can contain aromatic compounds which have higher carbon-to-hydrogen ratios. When these compounds burn, the deficiency of hydrogen can cause smoke. By hydrotreating the kerosene, the aromatic rings get saturated with hydrogen, converting them to naphthalenes which burn cleaner.