30
*STTR Project: Novel Attrition‑Resistant Fischer Tropsch Catalyst-- RBR@Vision,
Dr. Chun Choi, W, Principal Investigator, chun.choi@gastechnology.org
Dr. Robert B. Rosenberg, Business Official, rbr3@comcast.net
DOE Grant No. DE‑FG02‑08ER86358
Amount: $100,000
Research
Institution
Gas Technology Institute
Liquid fuels derived from coal can be made from a synthesis gas by
the Fischer-Tropsch catalytic process, which uses
metal catalysts supported on inert alumina or silica particles. These catalysts are subject to physical
breakdown, which shortens their useful lives, fouls the chemical process, and
necessitates frequent catalyst replacement.
The time and capital required for replacing broken-down catalyst,
separating the broken catalyst from the product materials, and repairing fouled
process equipment are significant costs inherent in current Fischer-Tropsch processes. This
project will develop technology for using a proprietary, attrition-resistant
catalyst support material that would be much more resistant to physical damage
and fracturing. Phase I will verify the high
resistance of these catalysts to deactivation by physical damage in fluidized
beds. Phase II would develop optimal
catalyst formulations and verify their physical and chemical stability,
activity, and selectivity for producing liquid fuels.
Commercial Applications
and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new catalyst concept would significantly reduce the cost of
making liquid fuels from a synthesis gas produced by gasifying coal or biomass,
or by reforming natural gas. This cost
reduction is an important step in decreasing