Greener Fischer-Tropsch Processes for Fuels and Feedstocks

A comprehensive and up-to-date overview of this process, from the basic science to commercial issues. In addition to the chemical and industrial side of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, this monograph deals with process economics as well as such "green" concepts as sustainability and environmental care.

The result is a practical reference for researchers and engineers working on fuel processing or fuel cell technologies in industry, while equally serving as a great introductory book for graduate courses in chemistry and chemical engineering. With its didactical approach, the book can also be used for training chemists and engineers in the coal chemical, petrochemical, and power generation industries.

After obtaining his PhD in chemistry (London), Peter Maitlis worked in the USA (Cornell, Harvard) and in Canada. In 1972 he returned to England to take up the Chair of Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Sheffield, where he is now Professor Emeritus. His research has been concerned with the interaction of metals with organic molecules, and is currently focussed on developing a closer understanding of heterogeneously catalysed reactions. He has held a number of named Lectureships and has also been President of the Dalton Division of the RSC and Chairman, SERC Chemistry Committee.

Arno de Klerk holds post-graduate qualifications in both analytical chemistry and chemical engineering. In 2001 he was appointed as research manager of the Fischer-Tropsch Refinery Catalysis group, being responsible for catalysis research related to conversion processes for upgrading Fischer-Tropsch syncrude to fuels and chemicals. In 2009 he relocated from South Africa to Canada and took up his present position at the University of Alberta. He has authored publications in the fields of engineering, catalysis, chemistry and refining and has received the Innovation Award of the South African Institution of Chemical Engineers three times.

SECTION I: INTRODUCTION

What is Fischer-Tropsch?

SECTION II: INDUSTRIAL AND ECONOMIC ASPECTS

Syngas, the Basis of Fischer-Tropsch

Fischer-Tropsch Technology

What can we do with Fischer-Tropsch Products?

Industrial Case Studies

Other Industrially Important Syngas Reactions

FT Process Economics

SECTION III: FUNDAMENTAL ASPECTS

Iron F-T Catalysts

Cobalt F-T Catalysts

Other FT Catalysts

Surface Science Studies Related to Fischer-Tropsch Reactions

Mechanistic Studies Related to the Fischer-Tropsch Hydrocarbon Synthesis and Some Cognate Processes

SECTION IV: ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS

FT Catalyst Lifecycle

FT Syncrude: To Refine or Upgrade?

Environmental Sustainability

SECTION V: FUTURE PROSPECTS

New Directions in FT