Conversion of Biogas to Liquid Fuels on Superior Catalysts

Nexceris proposes to develop novel structured catalysts for mixed CO2-steam reforming (CSR) and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) to convert biogas to wax, diesel, jet fuel and gasoline. As a renewable energy, biogas is produced from wet waste in the absence of oxygen and contains mainly CH4 and CO2. With concerns about global warming and ways of disposing of CO2, upgrading of biogas to liquid fuels via CSR and FTS is a promising approach to utilize two greenhouse gases CO2 and CH4 without expensive MEA CO2-CH4 separation process. CSR can generate the syngas with a H2/CO ratio of 2:1, which is further transformed to liquid fuels through FTS process. Nexceris proposed structured catalysts can improve heat and mass transfer, reduce pressure drop and increase catalyst robustness. Also, through a unique material synthesis approach, Nexceris will produce catalysts with excellent characteristics to improve intrinsic activities and stabilities. By tailoring the substrate/catalyst interface with a coating technology, we will seek to increase catalyst loading and adhesion on the substrates. Together, we anticipate catalyst activities will be increased significantly on Nexceris’ advanced catalysts when they are applied to fixed-bed reactors as compared to conventional CSR and FTS catalysts, improving liquid fuels productivity and shrinking reactor size. Apparently this will reduce capital cost and energy inputs. In the Phase I effort, powder catalysts will be synthesized, characterized, washcoated on small substrates, and tested for the CSR and FTS reactions. Correlations between catalyst properties and activities will be established. In the Phase II project, the most promising catalysts will be scaled up and washcoated on large substrates for demonstration. Key Words: dry reforming, CO2 reforming, steam reforming, Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, biogas, natural gas, methane, syngas, liquid fuels, diesel, gasoline and catalyst. Summary for Members of Congress: In this SBIR project, Nexceris, LLC will develop superior catalysts to convert renewable biogas (methane and CO2) to high quality transportation fuels through reforming and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.