FISCHER-TROPSCH PRODUCTS AS LIQUID FUELS OR CHEMICALS - AN ECONOMIC-EVALUATION

The compatibility between the Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (FT) and the economic role of the petroleum refining industry is examined. The economic advantage of the FT synthesis utilized within a petroleum refinery is explored. Also examined are the chemical and physical properties of the FT products. Although the FT distillate fuels have exceptional properties, FT naphta is difficult to reform into gasoline. The refiner may choose to utilize lighter FT products in petrochemical applications when FT is viewed as a supplement, rather than an alternative to petroleum refining. © 1991 J.C. Baltzer A.G., Scientific Publishing Company.