Abstract
The Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) catalytic conversion process can be used to synthesize diesel fuels from a variety of feedstocks, including coal, natural gas and biomass. Synthetic diesel fuels can have very low sulfur and aromatic content, and excellent autoignition characteristics. Moreover, F-T diesel fuels may also be economically competitive with California diesel fuel if produced in large volumes. An overview of F-T diesel fuel production and engine emissions testing is presented. Previous engine laboratory tests indicate that F-T diesel is a promising alternative fuel because it can be used in unmodified diesel engines, and substantial exhaust emissions reductions can be realized. The authors have performed preliminary tests to assess the real-world performance of F-T diesel fuel inheavy-duty trucks. Seven White-GMC Class 8 trucks equipped with Caterpillar 10.3 liter engines were tested using F-T diesel fuel. Vehicle emissions tests were performed using West Virginia University's unique transportable chassis dynamometer. The trucks were found to perform adequately on neat F-T diesel fuel. Compared to a California diesel fuel baseline, neat F-T diesel fuel emitted about 12%lower oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and 24% lower particulate matter over a five-mile driving cycle.
Original language | American English |
---|---|
Pages | 119-128 |
Number of pages | 10 |
State | Published - 1998 |
Event | Alternative Fuels 1998: International Fall Fuels and Lubricants Meeting and Exposition - San Francisco, California Duration: 19 Oct 1998 → 22 Oct 1998 |
Conference
Conference | Alternative Fuels 1998: International Fall Fuels and Lubricants Meeting and Exposition |
---|---|
City | San Francisco, California |
Period | 19/10/98 → 22/10/98 |
NREL Publication Number
- NREL/CP-540-25288