Synfuels
IFP Energies nouvelles is studying alternative solutions to petroleum-based fuels. In particular, these concern natural gas and coal, for which greater reserves exist. In addition, these reserves are more evenly distributed in geopolitical terms than oil reserves.
Synfuels from coal
IFP Energies nouvelles and Axens have developed direct and indirect conversion processes.
In the former case, the objective is to liquefy the coal at high temperatures and high pressures, then to hydrogenate the "liquefiates" to produce synthetic fuel bases meeting even the most stringent specifications. Hydroliquefaction is conducted using the H-CoalTM process marketed by Axens.
Indirect conversion is based on the Fischer-Tropsch process, which consists in converting a synthetic gas into a liquid fuel. However, this technology, known as CtL (Coal to Liquids), still requires some fine-tuning in economic and environmental terms. IFP Energies nouvelles is therefore working on reduction of CO2 emissions by minimizing the energy consumption of the process and studying integration of CO2 capture on conversion units.
Synfuels from natural gas
For natural gas, conversion is also conducted using the Fischer-Tropsch process. This is known as GtL (Gas to Liquids) technology. IFP Energies nouvelles is working to find new catalysts and increase the productivity of the process, the aim being to bring down the costs of the technology and reduce its impact on the environment.
+ Industrial development > Alternative fuels
+ Research theme > Fuels from biomass