Novel strategy to develop the technology of high-octane alternative fuel based on low-octane gasoline Fischer-Tropsch process

Abstract

Gasoline fraction of Fischer-Tropsch process due to poor quality has a low detonation resistance and high content of olefinic hydrocarbons. This research article introduces novel and simple strategy to produce high-octane alternative fuel based on low-octane gasoline Fischer-Tropsch process via new two-stage processes in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis involving isomerization of alkenes and methoxylation process. Isomerization process became one of the best gasoline production sources, as it gives a high-octane product. The study of the process of isomerization of gasoline Fischer-Tropsch on zeolite is carried out on a flow-through installation with a microreactor. Furthermore, the product of isomerization of gasoline Fischer-Tropsch fraction obtained at the previous stage is used as a feed for the other stage called methoxylation. The reaction for methoxylation process is carried out in an autoclave using a six-fold excess of methanol based on the C4-C7 olefinic hydrocarbons contained in the feedstock. Thanks to the methoxylation process, the product contains high-octane ethers, which made it possible to reduce olefinic hydrocarbons. The resulting gasoline fraction can be used as a base fuel for commercial gasoline, or alternative motor fuel. Further blending of the gasoline fraction with aromatic hydrocarbons and alcohols, which can also be obtained by processing synthesis gas, will allow producing high-quality high-octane alternative fuels.