Selective Ethene and Isoalkane Production from Alkanes and Alcohols by Superacid Catalysts
DOE Phase I SBIR Contract DE-FG02-07ER84879
Research at Eltron is addressing the need to produce high-volume chemicals and fuels as feedstocks from non-petroleum resources through a coal-to-liquid process; this problem is a high priority for the DOE and various heavy industries. Another important issue for the DOE is the development of better catalytic processes, specifically acid-based catalytic processes. Coal-derived Fischer-Tropsch naphtha potentially is a source for paraffins and alcohols from which valuable chemicals and fuels such as ethene, isobutene, and isopentane could be produced. More effective processes for Fischer-Tropsch-to-chemicals/fuels production are sought, and such processes may be based on acid-base catalysis.
Eltron is addressing the problems by designing and preparing improved, strong solid acid catalysts, based on sulfated zirconia and related mixed oxide systems, for converting paraffins and alcohols to higher-value products in future Fischer-Tropsch plants. The most promising processes will be chosen for scale-up and further development, based on technical and economical assessments. Continued research will allow us to implement the chosen processes on a bench-scale and design them for pilot plant construction and operation, in cooperation with industrial partners and investors.