Abstract
Natural gas is a premium fuel because of its high heating value (210.8 kcal/g{center_dot}mol methane) and clean burning characteristics. Transportation costs from source to market, however, may prevent its use as a fuel. Alternative uses for natural gas include conversions to chemicals and to liquid fuels, which often can be conveniently carried out at the location of the gas source. However, conversions to alternative fuels with lower heating values ({approximately} 156--167 kcal/g{center_dot}carbon atom for hydrocarbons; 170.9 kcal/g{center_dot}mol for methanol) can be rational and economical only under special circumstances. This article presents a brief review and comparison of the salient features of the three major conversion technologies: ammonia, methanol, and syncrude syntheses. Because synthesis gas is a common intermediate in these syntheses, the fundamentals of synthesis gas generation are also included. The objective is to illuminate past progress and to evaluate the possibility for significant advances in these proven commercial technologies.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.