Syngas Conversion to Liquids

There is an increasing focus on the development of clean transportation fuels and chemicals, including hydrogen from indigenous sources such as coal and biomass. The current focus on clean fuel development is related to growing concerns about the supply and price instability of petroleum and transportation fuel as well an increased emphasis on energy security and diversity. Conversion of biomass-based syngas to liquid fuels has received significant funding from the public and private sectors in recent years because of its potential as an alternative to imported petroleum that can also reduce emission of greenhouse gases (GHG).

Southern Research has more than three decades of experience in the conversion of syngas to liquids and related technologies. Our experienced scientists and engineers are engaged in the operation and testing of one of the first fully integrated systems for conversion of biomass to syngas and conversion of the cleaned syngas to diesel and waxes. In addition, we work extensively with public and private-sector clients to further develop syngas-to-liquid technology and its various subsystems. Our diverse experience includes:

• Operation, data collection, and performance evaluation of a fully integrated biorefinery for production of clean, "drop-in" diesel and paraffin wax
• Operation of a process development unit (PDU) and data collection, analysis, and performance evaluation of mixed alcohol catalysts
• Development, design, construction, and testing of a unique technology for removal of multi-contaminants, including tars from syngas
• Development of membrane technology for hydrogen-carbon dioxide separation