Fisher–Tropsch Synthesis for Conversion of Methane into Liquid Hydrocarbons through Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) Process: A Review

The interest in Gas-to-Liquid technology (GTL) is growing worldwide because it involves a two-step indirect conversion of natural gas to higher hydrocarbons ranging from Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) paraffin wax. GTL makes possible obtain clean diesel, naphtha, lubes, olefins, and other industrially important organics gas. This article brief review discussing the state-of-the-art GTL, including basics syngas manufacturing as source for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS), (Fischer-Tropsch process), product upgrading. Each one analyzed, main characteristics traditional catalysts technologies are presented. For generation, steam methane reforming, partial oxidation, autothermal reforming discussed. Fischer–Tropsch, we highlight role catalysis selectivity high molecular weight hydrocarbons. Also, new reactors technologies, such microreactors, still faces several challenges; biggest obtaining right H2:CO ratio when using low steam-to-carbon ratio. Despite great understanding carbon formation mechanism, little has been made developing newer catalysts. Since 60–70% plant cost production, needs more attention, particularly catalytic oxidation process (CPO), given that modern CPO processes ceramic membrane reactor reduce plant’s capital cost. Improving membrane’s mechanical, thermal, chemical stability can commercialize process. Catalytic challenges accompanying FTS need attention enhance produce high-octane gasoline, lower production cost, develop systems, Catalytically, should be generation convenient catalyst layer coating configuration.