September 2024
The E-TANDEM project aims to thoroughly assess the properties of a new higher-oxygenate e-fuel (HOEF), with a focus on its blendability with fossil fuels such as marine gasoil (MGO). Researchers are also evaluating the e-fuel, both in its pure form and as part of fuel blends, to ensure compatibility with existing diesel regulations and materials used in internal combustion engines (ICE) and fuel storage systems.
Given that the experimental production of the e-fuel is at a small scale, surrogate synthetic fuels are used for testing. These surrogates are prepared in larger quantities and have chemical compositions similar to the HOEF. Two main mixtures are being studied: one of synthetic aliphatic higher alcohols (C6-10), and another of synthetic aliphatic higher ether compounds (C8-20).
A key focus has been successfully optimizing the production of synthetic ethers, the essential component in the fuel. By carefully selecting a dehydration catalyst and controlling reaction conditions, researchers have achieved an ether selectivity of over 85%, with an overall yield of 60%. The process was successfully scaled up to a 10-litre batch level, producing enough fuel for further formulation and testing. These efforts will contribute to advancing e-fuel technology for cleaner, sustainable energy solutions.
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