Fischer-Tropsch Fuels

This Sun Diesel BTL fuel, made from wood chips, results in lower particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions.

Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) fuels are synthetic diesel fuels produced by converting gaseous hydrocarbons, such as natural gas and gasified coal or biomass, into liquid fuel. These fuels are commonly categorized into the following groups:

• Biomass to liquids (BTL)
• Gas to liquids (GTL)
• Coal to liquids (CTL)

Argonne engineers are investigating the performance and emissions data of F-T fuels for both older and newer vehicles. The goal is to provide this data to the U.S. Department of Energy, the auto industry and energy suppliers. Part of the lab's strategy also includes publishing the data to solicit ideas and input from the fuels and combustion community.

Researchers are currently working with Sasol, an integrated energy and chemicals company, to develop and improve the properties of CTL and GTL fuels from a commercial perspective.

Argonne's F-T research efforts are supported by the U.S. Department of Energy's Vehicle Technologies Program under the direction of Kevin Stork.

February 2010