Characterization and surrogate formulation of heavy fuel oil

Abstract

Residual fuel oils have recently garnered attention as promising feedstocks for gasification processes. However, their complex compositions pose challenges for accurate characterization and simulation. This study addresses this issue by formulating a surrogate molecule for heavy fuel oil (HFO) with minimal components, aiming to replicate the average molecular formula and functional groups distribution found in the original fuel. To overcome challenges associated with Fourier transform-ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) detection limits, a distillation process was employed, yielding two fractions: residual distillate (enriched in heavy complex components) and volatile distillate (enriched in light components). Both fractions undergo comprehensive characterization through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, FT-ICR MS for the residual distillate and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for the volatile distillate.The study highlights the importance of estimating average molecular weight (AMW) using both fractions to avoid overestimation when relying solely on FT-ICR MS. The developed six-component surrogate, based on elemental analysis, average molecular parameters (AMPs), and AMW of each fraction, demonstrates accuracy in replicating some properties of the original HFO. The surrogate proves effective compared to quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) calculations and holds potential for simulating HFO in gasification processes. The molecular design of the surrogate incorporates 1H and 13C NMR data, ensuring similarity in AMPs, AMW, and molecular formula to the target HFO. This comprehensive approach enhances the understanding and application of surrogate molecules for simulating residual oils in gasification processes.