Journal Description
Fuels
Fuels
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on fuel science, published quarterly online by MDPI. The Institute of Energy and Fuel Processing Technology (ITPE) is affiliated to Fuels and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within ESCI (Web of Science), EBSCO, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 21.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 17.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Impact Factor:
2.7 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.6 (2023)
Latest Articles
Research on Economic Evaluation Methods and Project Investment Strategies for Gas Power Generation Based on the Natural Gas Industry Chain and Gas–Electricity Price Linkage in China
Fuels 2024, 5(4), 715-726; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5040039 - 24 Oct 2024
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In recent years, due to the spike in natural gas spot prices, gas-fired power corporations’ operating costs have skyrocketed. Traditional power generation corporations have gradually been withdrawing from gas power generation investment, replaced by oil and gas enterprises with upstream resources. The development
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In recent years, due to the spike in natural gas spot prices, gas-fired power corporations’ operating costs have skyrocketed. Traditional power generation corporations have gradually been withdrawing from gas power generation investment, replaced by oil and gas enterprises with upstream resources. The development of gas-fired power plants helps to maintain the stability of the power grid and has a positive effect on the realization of carbon neutrality goals. At present, most of the financial evaluation methods for gas power generation projects tend to focus on the static tariffs of the project itself and lack consideration for the overall contribution to the industry chain and the latest “gas–electricity price linkage” mechanisms in China, leading to oil and gas enterprises reducing investment in gas-fired power plants due to yield constraints. In this paper, a financial evaluation methodology for gas power generation projects based on the industrial chain and the “gas–electricity price linkage” mechanism was proposed. The investment return characteristics of specific gas power generation projects under the “gas–electricity price linkage” mechanism in different provinces were revealed through this methodology. Considering the characteristics and industrial development trends in major provinces in China, investment and operation strategies for gas power generation were proposed. These studies provide oil and gas enterprises with references and suggestions for future investment decisions for new gas power generation projects.
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Open AccessArticle
Exploration of Changes in Coal Pore Characteristics and Gas Adsorption Characteristics Based on Influence of Stress
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Le-Jing Qin, Hong-Qing Zhu, Jian-Fei Sun and Shao-Kui Ren
Fuels 2024, 5(4), 698-714; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5040038 - 18 Oct 2024
Abstract
As the mining depth increases, the effect of stress on the gas adsorption of coal gradually becomes significant. There are significant differences in the pore volume, specific surface area, and adsorption characteristics of coal before and after stress. In this study, the porosity
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As the mining depth increases, the effect of stress on the gas adsorption of coal gradually becomes significant. There are significant differences in the pore volume, specific surface area, and adsorption characteristics of coal before and after stress. In this study, the porosity variation characteristics of coal were studied using axial and confining pressure loading processes, and volumetric stress was introduced to characterize the pore variation law of coal under triaxial stress. By calculating the stress values at different burial depths, gas isothermal adsorption experiments were conducted on coal under different stress effects. The Langmuir equation, D-A equation, and Freundlich empirical formula were used to fit the adsorption experimental results. Combining experiments and models to predict the adsorbed and free gas content under stress, we described the gas adsorption law of coal under different stress effects.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Evolution of Land-Based Gas Turbines)
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Simulation-Based Optimization Workflow of CO2-EOR for Hydraulic Fractured Wells in Wolfcamp A Formation
by
Dung Bui, Duc Pham, Son Nguyen and Kien Nguyen
Fuels 2024, 5(4), 673-697; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5040037 - 18 Oct 2024
Abstract
Hydraulic fracturing has enabled production from unconventional reservoirs in the U.S., but production rates often decline sharply, limiting recovery factors to under 10%. This study proposes an optimization workflow for the CO2 huff-n-puff process for multistage-fractured horizontal wells in the Wolfcamp A
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Hydraulic fracturing has enabled production from unconventional reservoirs in the U.S., but production rates often decline sharply, limiting recovery factors to under 10%. This study proposes an optimization workflow for the CO2 huff-n-puff process for multistage-fractured horizontal wells in the Wolfcamp A formation in the Delaware Basin. The potential for enhanced oil recovery and CO2 sequestration simultaneously was addressed using a coupled geomechanics–reservoir simulation. Geomechanical properties were derived from a 1D mechanical earth model and integrated into reservoir simulation to replicate hydraulic fracture geometries. The fracture model was validated using a robust production history matching. A fluid phase behavior analysis refined the equation of state, and 1D slim tube simulations determined a minimum miscibility pressure of 4300 psi for CO2 injection. After the primary production phase, various CO2 injection rates were tested from 1 to 25 MMSCFD/well, resulting in incremental oil recovery ranging from 6.3% to 69.3%. Different injection, soaking and production cycles were analyzed to determine the ideal operating condition. The optimal scenario improved cumulative oil recovery by 68.8% while keeping the highest CO2 storage efficiency. The simulation approach proposed by this study provides a comprehensive and systematic workflow for evaluating and optimizing CO2 huff-n-puff in hydraulically fractured wells, enhancing the recovery factor of unconventional reservoirs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Fuels)
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Advanced Biofuels in Internal Combustion Engines: Diesel/Fusel Oil/Vegetable Oil Triple Blends
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Rafael Estevez, Francisco J. López-Tenllado, Laura Aguado-Deblas, Felipa M. Bautista, Antonio A. Romero and Diego Luna
Fuels 2024, 5(4), 660-672; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5040036 - 18 Oct 2024
Abstract
In this research work, the feasibility of using fusel oil, a by-product of the sugar–alcohol industry, as an LVLC solvent in blends with straight vegetable oils (SVOs) and diesel was investigated. Concretely, diesel/fusel oil/sunflower oil (D/FO/SO) and diesel/fusel oil/castor oil (D/FO/CO) triple blends
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In this research work, the feasibility of using fusel oil, a by-product of the sugar–alcohol industry, as an LVLC solvent in blends with straight vegetable oils (SVOs) and diesel was investigated. Concretely, diesel/fusel oil/sunflower oil (D/FO/SO) and diesel/fusel oil/castor oil (D/FO/CO) triple blends were prepared and characterized by measuring the most important physicochemical properties, i.e., viscosity, density, cold flow properties, flash point and cetane number. An appreciable improvement in cold flow values has been achieved with triple blends, without compromising properties such as calorific value and cetane number. Likewise, the triple blends meet the viscosity and density requirements specified by the European quality standard EN 14214 and the American standard ASTM D6751. After characterization, the triple blends were used on a diesel engine, evaluating different parameters such as power output, opacity, exhaust emissions (CO and NOx) and consumption at different engine loads. The results indicate that as the biofuel content in the blend increases, engine power decreases while fuel consumption rises. Nevertheless, the values obtained with D/FO/CO are better than those for D/FO/SO and are also very similar to those of fossil diesel. Regarding opacity values and NOx emissions obtained with the utilization of the triple blends, they are lower than those produced by diesel. However, in the case of CO emissions, it depends on the type of oil used, with the samples prepared with castor oil exhibiting the best results.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Propulsion and Energy Systems Utilising Alternative Fuels: Fuel Injection and Combustion Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
An Experimental Study of the Emission Characteristics and Soot Emission of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) in an Industrial Burner
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István Péter Kondor and Krisztián Kun
Fuels 2024, 5(4), 650-659; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5040035 - 17 Oct 2024
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The aim of this research is to investigate the environmental emission effects and combustion properties of burning different types of FAME biodiesel fuels in an industrial oil burner. These burner heads are used in many areas of industry for heating various boilers and
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The aim of this research is to investigate the environmental emission effects and combustion properties of burning different types of FAME biodiesel fuels in an industrial oil burner. These burner heads are used in many areas of industry for heating various boilers and tube furnaces. The fuels used, the area of use, the emission norm values, and the climatic conditions are key factors in this investigation. In this research, two plant-based oils are examined, the properties of which have been compared to standard commercial heating oil. The raw material of the two tested bio-based components was rapeseed. The main gas emission parameters CO, THC, CO2, O2, HC, water content, and consumption data were measured. The measurements were performed in an AVL engine brake platform infrastructure, where gas emissions were measured with an AVL AMA i60 FTIR emission gas analyzer, fuel consumption was meticulously gauged using a fuel flow meter, fuel temperature was monitored using an AVL 745 fuel temperature conditioning system, and air consumption was measured with an AVL Flowsonix intake air flow meter. The measurement results showed that both tested biofuels can be burned stably in industrial oil burners, have favorable properties in terms of ignition and flame extinction tendencies, and there is no significant difference in emission parameters compared to standard fuel oil.
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Open AccessReview
Biomass Gasification as a Scalable, Green Route to Combined Heat and Power (CHP) and Synthesis Gas for Materials: A Review
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Maximilian Lackner, Qiang Fei, Shuqi Guo, Ning Yang, Xiaoping Guan and Peng Hu
Fuels 2024, 5(4), 625-649; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5040034 - 4 Oct 2024
Abstract
The high externalized and still partly unknown costs of fossil fuels through air pollution from combustion, and their limited resources have caused mankind to (re)turn to renewable sources such as wind, solar, and biomass to meet its energy needs. Converting biomass to synthesis
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The high externalized and still partly unknown costs of fossil fuels through air pollution from combustion, and their limited resources have caused mankind to (re)turn to renewable sources such as wind, solar, and biomass to meet its energy needs. Converting biomass to synthesis gas is advantageous since it can utilize a wide variety of (waste) feedstocks to obtain an energetic and versatile product at low cost in large quantities. Gasification is no new technology; yet in recent years, biomass gasification has attracted significant attention. Due to the non-depletable nature of agricultural waste and similar biomass side streams, which have little value and can bring environmental problems when mismanaged such as methane emissions, it is possible to obtain cheap electrical or thermal energy through the gas produced with high efficiencies. Combined heat and power (CHP) is the preferred use case, and recently the focus has moved to polygeneration, e.g., to make value-added products from the synthesis gas. Fischer–Tropsch synthesis from coal-derived syngas is now being complemented by the gas fermentation of biobased synthesis gas, where microorganisms yield materials from CO/H2 (and CO2) in an anaerobic process and from CH4/O2 in an aerobic process. Syngas methanation offers an alternative route to produce synthetic natural gas (SNG, or bio-SNG) as additional feedstock for gas fermentation. Materials made from syngas are decoupled from primary agricultural operations and do not compete with feed and food production. Due to the ample raw material base for gasification, which can basically be all kinds of mostly dry biomass, including waste such as municipal solid waste (MSW), syngas-derived products are highly scalable. Amongst them are bioplastics, biofuels, biobased building blocks, and single-cell protein (SCP) for feed and food. This article reviews the state-of-the-art in biomass gasification with a spotlight on gas fermentation for the sustainable production of high-volume materials.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Value-Added and Sustainable Materials from Fossil Fuels and Related Byproducts)
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Open AccessArticle
Catalytic Performance of Hydroxyapatite-Based Supports: Tailored vs. Commercial Formulations for Dry Reforming of Methane
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Hanaa Hassini, Bruna Rego de Vasconcelos and Inès Esma Achouri
Fuels 2024, 5(4), 607-624; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5040033 - 3 Oct 2024
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Catalyst deactivation, mainly due to coke deposition, presents a significant challenge in the process of dry reforming of methane (DRM). This study focused on coke-resistant catalysts for DRM, particularly nickel-based catalysts supported on hydroxyapatite (HAP). A novel HAP formulation (HAPS) with
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Catalyst deactivation, mainly due to coke deposition, presents a significant challenge in the process of dry reforming of methane (DRM). This study focused on coke-resistant catalysts for DRM, particularly nickel-based catalysts supported on hydroxyapatite (HAP). A novel HAP formulation (HAPS) with a Ca/P ratio of 1.54, below the stochiometric ratio studied in previous studies, was compared with commercial HAP (HAPC), and both were impregnated with 10 wt% nickel. The synthesis of HAPS involved low temperature (60 °C), moderate stirring, and a pH of 11, using a custom setup. Dry-reforming reactions were conducted under severe conditions (T = 800 °C) to assess the resistivity of both supports over 120 h. Our findings indicated sustained high conversion rates, reaching 93% for CH4 and 98% for CO2 with HAPS, despite an increase in gas hourly space velocity. Characterisation, including X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and transmission electron microscopy, revealed coke formation using HAPC, leading to initial deactivation, in contrast with the custom support. This discrepancy may be attributed to the distinct physical and chemical properties of the catalysts, their reaction mechanisms, and the deactivation precursors. Overall, the performance of nickel-based catalysts significantly hinges on support–catalyst interactions, in addition to thermal stability.
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Factors Leading to Diffusion of Alternative Fuels Using a Socio-Technical Transition Approach—A Case Study of LNG as a Marine Fuel in Norway
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Domagoj Baresic and Nishatabbas Rehmatulla
Fuels 2024, 5(4), 574-606; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5040032 - 30 Sep 2024
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The maritime shipping sector needs to transition towards a low- or zero-emission future to align with the 1.5 °C temperature goal and the recently adopted and revised greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). A significant research gap exists in
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The maritime shipping sector needs to transition towards a low- or zero-emission future to align with the 1.5 °C temperature goal and the recently adopted and revised greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). A significant research gap exists in understanding how socio-economic and socio-political processes can lead to the adoption of alternative marine fuels that will be essential in meeting the aforementioned goals. The aim of this paper is to use a case study of an existing transition to understand how diffusion takes place, specifically how the adoption of liquified natural gas (LNG) in Norway has unfolded and what lessons can be learnt from this process. To answer this question, a combination of semi-structured interviews with key maritime stakeholders and documentary evidence was collected covering the period from 1985 to 2015. The collected data were analysed through a content analysis approach applying the multilevel perspective (MLP) as a heuristic. The qualitative results paint an interesting picture of the changing attitudes towards LNG as a marine fuel in Norway. In the early years, the adoption of LNG was primarily driven by air pollution and political considerations of using Norwegian natural gas, which over time, evolved into a more focused maritime paradigm painted through the lens of the Norwegian maritime industry under wider regulatory developments such as emission control areas (ECAs). By the 2010s, these drivers were superseded by GHG considerations such as methane slip concerns and a less favourable natural gas market leading to a slowdown of LNG adoption. These findings provide valuable insights for understanding future adoption dynamics of alternative zero-emission fuels, particularly in relation to the role of strong technology champions, institutional modification requirements, and starting conditions for a transition.
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Open AccessArticle
Forming Ni-Fe and Co-Fe Bimetallic Structures on SrTiO3-Based SOFC Anode Candidates
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Kinga Kujawska, Wojciech Koliński and Beata Bochentyn
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 564-573; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030031 - 20 Sep 2024
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The aim of this work was to verify the possibility of forming Ni-Fe and Co-Fe alloys via topotactic ion exchange exsolution in Fe-infiltrated (La,Sr,Ce)0.9(Ni,Ti)O3-δ or (La,Sr,Ce)0.9(Co,Ti)O3-δ ceramics. For this purpose, samples were synthesized using the Pechini method
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The aim of this work was to verify the possibility of forming Ni-Fe and Co-Fe alloys via topotactic ion exchange exsolution in Fe-infiltrated (La,Sr,Ce)0.9(Ni,Ti)O3-δ or (La,Sr,Ce)0.9(Co,Ti)O3-δ ceramics. For this purpose, samples were synthesized using the Pechini method and then infiltrated with an iron nitrate solution. The reduction process in dry H2 forced the topotactic ion exchange exsolution, leading to the formation of additional round-shape structures on the surfaces of grains. EDS scans and XRD analysis confirmed the formation of bimetallic alloys, which suggests that these materials have great potential for further use as anode materials for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs).
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Open AccessArticle
A Comparative Analysis of the Prediction of Gas Condensate Dew Point Pressure Using Advanced Machine Learning Algorithms
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Thitaree Lertliangchai, Birol Dindoruk, Ligang Lu, Xi Yang and Utkarsh Sinha
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 548-563; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030030 - 16 Sep 2024
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Dew point pressure (DPP) emerges as a pivotal factor crucial for forecasting reservoir dynamics regarding condensate-to-gas ratio and addressing production/completion hurdles, alongside calibrating EOS models for integrated simulation. However, DPP presents challenges in terms of predictability. Acknowledging these complexities, we introduce a state-of-the-art
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Dew point pressure (DPP) emerges as a pivotal factor crucial for forecasting reservoir dynamics regarding condensate-to-gas ratio and addressing production/completion hurdles, alongside calibrating EOS models for integrated simulation. However, DPP presents challenges in terms of predictability. Acknowledging these complexities, we introduce a state-of-the-art approach for DPP estimation utilizing advanced machine learning (ML) techniques. Our methodology is juxtaposed against published empirical correlation-based methods on two datasets with limited sizes and diverse inputs. With superior performance over correlation-based estimators, our ML approach demonstrates adaptability and resilience even with restricted training datasets, spanning various fluid classifications. We acquired condensate PVT data from publicly available sources and GeoMark RFDBASE, encompassing dew point pressure (the target variable), as well as compositional data (mole percentages of each component), temperature, molecular weight (MW), and specific gravity (SG) of heptane plus, which served as input variables. Before initiating the study, thorough assessments of measurement quality and results using statistical methods were conducted leveraging domain expertise. Subsequently, advanced ML techniques were employed to train predictive models with cross-validation to mitigate overfitting to the limited datasets. Our models were juxtaposed against the foremost published DDP estimators utilizing empirical correlation-based methods, with correlation-based estimators also trained on the underlying datasets for equitable comparison. To improve outcomes, pseudo-critical properties and artificial proxy features were utilized, leveraging generalized input data.
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Open AccessArticle
Development of a Design Tool for Performance Estimation and Validation Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell: Verification and Validation for 20 KW Commercial Fuel Cell
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Angelo Leto and Giuseppe Di Lorenzo
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 533-547; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030029 - 12 Sep 2024
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This work provides an extended description of the tools developed in the Wolfram Mathematica environment to characterize proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. These tools, with their user-friendly interface, facilitate the calculation of the main parameters required to obtain the PEM fuel cell
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This work provides an extended description of the tools developed in the Wolfram Mathematica environment to characterize proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. These tools, with their user-friendly interface, facilitate the calculation of the main parameters required to obtain the PEM fuel cell polarization curve, offering a seamless and intuitive experience. Various mathematical models and algorithms are coded to accurately calculate the parameters needed for the polarization curve analysis. This study presents the development and validation of a computational tool designed to simulate the performance of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. The tool integrates thermodynamic and electrochemical equations to predict key operational parameters, and was validated using experimental data from a commercial Ballard® PEM fuel cell to ensure its accuracy. The validation process involved comparing the numerical predictions with empirical measurements under various operating conditions. The results demonstrate that the computational tool accurately replicates the performance characteristics observed in the experimental data, confirming its reliability and instilling confidence in its use for simulating PEM fuel cell behavior. This tool offers a valuable resource for optimizing fuel cell design and operation, providing insights into the efficiency, output, and potential areas for improvement. Future work will expand the tool’s capabilities to include degradation mechanisms and long-term performance predictions. This advancement underscores the tool’s potential as a comprehensive solution for academic research and industrial applications in fuel cell technology.
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Open AccessReview
Advancements in the Application of CO2 Capture and Utilization Technologies—A Comprehensive Review
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Queendarlyn Adaobi Nwabueze and Smith Leggett
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 508-532; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030028 - 11 Sep 2024
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Addressing escalating energy demands and greenhouse gas emissions in the oil and gas industry has driven extensive efforts in carbon capture and utilization (CCU), focusing on power plants and industrial facilities. However, utilizing CO2 as a raw material to produce valuable chemicals,
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Addressing escalating energy demands and greenhouse gas emissions in the oil and gas industry has driven extensive efforts in carbon capture and utilization (CCU), focusing on power plants and industrial facilities. However, utilizing CO2 as a raw material to produce valuable chemicals, materials, and fuels for transportation may offer a more sustainable and long-term solution than sequestration alone. This approach also presents promising alternatives to traditional chemical feedstock in industries such as fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and polymers. This review comprehensively outlines the current state of CO2 capture technologies, exploring the associated challenges and opportunities regarding their efficiency and economic feasibility. Specifically, it examines the potential of technologies such as chemical looping, membrane separation, and adsorption processes, which are advancing the frontiers of CO2 capture by enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. Additionally, it explores the various methods of CO2 utilization, highlighting the potential benefits and applications. These methods hold potential for producing high-value chemicals and materials, offering new pathways for industries to reduce their carbon footprint. The integration of CO2 capture and utilization is also examined, emphasizing its potential as a cost-effective and efficient approach that mitigates climate change while converting CO2 into a valuable resource. Finally, the review outlines the challenges in designing, developing, and scaling up CO2 capture and utilization processes, providing a comprehensive perspective on the technical and economic challenges that need to be addressed. It provides a roadmap for technologies, suggesting that their successful deployment could result in significant environmental benefits and encourage innovation in sustainable practices within the energy and chemical sectors.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Initiatives on Carbon Dioxide Utilization (CDU) for Fuel Production)
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Potential for Biogas Production from Water Hyacinth and Banana Peels: A Case Study of Substrates Harvested from Lomé, Togo
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Djangbadjoa Gbiete, Jan Sprafke, Damgou Mani Kongnine, Satyanarayana Narra, Pali Kpelou, Essowè Mouzou and Komi Agboka
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 494-507; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030027 - 9 Sep 2024
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Climate change and the growing demand for energy have prompted research on alternative eco-friendly energy sources. This study focused on the potential for biogas production from water hyacinth and banana peel waste through physicochemical characterization and batch anaerobic digestion tests. The water hyacinth
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Climate change and the growing demand for energy have prompted research on alternative eco-friendly energy sources. This study focused on the potential for biogas production from water hyacinth and banana peel waste through physicochemical characterization and batch anaerobic digestion tests. The water hyacinth and banana peel samples were dried, ground, and subjected to elemental, proximate, and fiber content analyses. Subsequently, banana peel waste, water hyacinth stems, and leaves were used for batch anaerobic digestion tests in 500 mL glass flask bottles for 21 days under mesophilic conditions in n = 3 trials. Kruskal–Wallis and Dunnett’s tests were performed to identify the significance of the differences in biogas yield among the samples. The analyses of the elemental, proximate, and fiber contents of water hyacinth and banana peels revealed that they possess a suitable chemical composition and essential nutrients for the production of high-yield biogas. The biogas yields from water hyacinth leaves, stems, and banana peels were 280.15, 324.79, and 334.82 mL/g VS, respectively. These findings indicate that water hyacinth and banana peel waste have significant potential for biogas production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass Conversion to Biofuels)
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Open AccessArticle
A Real Case: How to Combine Polarization Curve and EIS Techniques to Identify Problematic Cells in a Commercial PEM Stack
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Guillermo Gómez, Pilar Argumosa and Jesús Maellas
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 476-493; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030026 - 2 Sep 2024
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Nowadays, the mobility sector is assessing different technologies to substitute the internal combustion engines in order to reduce its CO2 emissions; one of these possible alternatives is the Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cell. So, the development of non-destructive diagnostic tools that
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Nowadays, the mobility sector is assessing different technologies to substitute the internal combustion engines in order to reduce its CO2 emissions; one of these possible alternatives is the Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cell. So, the development of non-destructive diagnostic tools that could identify defective cells and/or any malfunctioning behavior and can be easily embarked on in any vehicle will expand the durability of PEM fuel cells, improve their performance, and enable them to carry out predictive maintenance. In this research, we use an in-house developed methodology that combines the polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques to characterize different cells of a commercial PEM stack, identifying malfunctioning ones.
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Open AccessArticle
Steam Reforming of Tar Impurities from Biomass Gasification with Ni-Co/Mg(Al)O Catalysts—Operating Parameter Effects
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Ask Lysne, Ida Saxrud, Kristin Ø. Madsen and Edd A. Blekkan
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 458-475; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030025 - 28 Aug 2024
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The elimination of tar impurities from biomass gasification by catalytic steam reforming can provide clean syngas for downstream biofuel synthesis (Fischer–Tropsch). The effects of key operating parameters in CH4/tar steam reforming were investigated. Ni-Co/Mg(Al)O catalyst performance was tested at model conditions
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The elimination of tar impurities from biomass gasification by catalytic steam reforming can provide clean syngas for downstream biofuel synthesis (Fischer–Tropsch). The effects of key operating parameters in CH4/tar steam reforming were investigated. Ni-Co/Mg(Al)O catalyst performance was tested at model conditions (10/35/25/25/5 wt% CH4/H2/CO/CO2/N2), changing the temperature (650–800 °C), steam-to-carbon ratio (2–5), tar loading (10–30 g/Nm3), and tar composition (toluene, 1-methylenaphthalene, and phenol). Complete tar elimination was achieved under all conditions, at the expense of catalyst deactivation by coke formation. Post-operation coke characterization was obtained with TPO-MS, Raman spectroscopy, and STEM analysis, providing vital insight into coke morphology and location. Critical low-temperature and high-tar loading limits were identified, where rapid deactivation was accompanied by increasing amounts of hard coke species. A coke classification scheme is proposed, including strongly adsorbed surface carbon species (soft coke A), initial scattered carbon filaments (hard coke B1.1), filament clusters and fused filaments (B2), and strongly deactivating bulk encapsulating coke (B3), formed through progressive filament cluster graphitization. High-molecular-weight tar was found to enhance the formation of strongly deactivating metal-particle-encapsulating coke (B1.2). The results contribute to the understanding of coke formation in the presence of biomass gasification tar impurities.
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Open AccessArticle
Impact of Thickness of Pd/Cu Membrane on Performance of Biogas Dry Reforming Membrane Reactor Utilizing Ni/Cr Catalyst
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Akira Nishimura, Syogo Ito, Mizuki Ichikawa and Mohan Lal Kolhe
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 439-457; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030024 - 27 Aug 2024
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The present study pays attention to biogas dry reforming for the purpose of producing H2. It is known that biogas contains approximately 40 vol% CO2, causing a decrease in the efficiency of power generation due to its lower heating
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The present study pays attention to biogas dry reforming for the purpose of producing H2. It is known that biogas contains approximately 40 vol% CO2, causing a decrease in the efficiency of power generation due to its lower heating value compared to natural gas, i.e., CH4. We suggest a hybrid system composed of a biogas dry reforming membrane reactor and a high-temperature fuel cell, i.e., a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). Since biogas dry reforming is an endothermic reaction, we adopt a membrane reactor, controlled by providing a non-equilibrium state via H2 separation from the reaction site. The purpose of the present study is to understand the effect of the thickness of the Pd/Cu membrane on the performance of the biogas dry reforming membrane reactor with a Pd/Cu membrane as well as a Ni/Cr catalyst. The impact of the reaction temperature, the molar ratio of CH4:CO2 and the differential pressure between the reaction chamber and the sweep chamber on the performance of the biogas dry reforming membrane reactor with the Pd/Cu membrane as well as the Ni/Cr catalyst was investigated by changing the thickness of the Pd/Cu membrane. It was revealed that we can obtain the highest concentration of H2, of 122,711 ppmV, for CH4:CO2 = 1:1 at a reaction temperature of 600 °C and a differential pressure of 0 MPa and using a Pd/Cu membrane with a thickness of 40 μm. Under these conditions, it can be concluded that the differential pressure of 0 MPa provides benefits for practical applications, especially since no power for H2 separation is necessary. Therefore, the thermal efficiency is improved, and additional equipment, e.g., a pump, is not necessary for practical applications.
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Open AccessReview
Advancements in Synthetic Biology for Enhancing Cyanobacterial Capabilities in Sustainable Plastic Production: A Green Horizon Perspective
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Taufiq Nawaz, Liping Gu, Zhong Hu, Shah Fahad, Shah Saud and Ruanbao Zhou
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 394-438; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030023 - 27 Aug 2024
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This comprehensive review investigates the potential of cyanobacteria, particularly nitrogen-fixing strains, in addressing global challenges pertaining to plastic pollution and carbon emissions. By analyzing the distinctive characteristics of cyanobacteria, including their minimal growth requirements, high photosynthetic efficiency, and rapid growth rates, this study
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This comprehensive review investigates the potential of cyanobacteria, particularly nitrogen-fixing strains, in addressing global challenges pertaining to plastic pollution and carbon emissions. By analyzing the distinctive characteristics of cyanobacteria, including their minimal growth requirements, high photosynthetic efficiency, and rapid growth rates, this study elucidates their crucial role in transforming carbon sequestration, biofuel generation, and biodegradable plastic production. The investigation emphasizes cyanobacteria’s efficiency in photosynthesis, positioning them as optimal candidates for cost-effective bioplastic production with minimized land usage. Furthermore, the study explores their unconventional yet promising utilization in biodiesel production, mitigating environmental concerns such as sulfur emissions and the presence of aromatic hydrocarbons. The resulting biodiesel exhibits significant combustion potential, establishing cyanobacteria as a viable option for sustainable biofuel production. Through a comprehensive assessment of both achievements and challenges encountered during the commercialization process, this review offers valuable insights into the diverse contributions of cyanobacteria. Its objective is to provide guidance to researchers, policymakers, and industries interested in harnessing bio-inspired approaches for structural and sustainable applications, thereby advancing global efforts towards environmentally conscious plastic and biofuel production.
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Open AccessReview
A Review of Catalyst Integration in Hydrothermal Gasification
by
Emmanuel Galiwango, James Butler and Samira Lotfi
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 375-393; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030022 - 23 Aug 2024
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Industrial scale-up of hydrothermal supercritical water gasification process requires catalytic integration to reduce the high operational temperatures and pressures to enhance controlled chemical reaction pathways, product yields, and overall process economics. There is greater literature disparity in consensus on what is the best
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Industrial scale-up of hydrothermal supercritical water gasification process requires catalytic integration to reduce the high operational temperatures and pressures to enhance controlled chemical reaction pathways, product yields, and overall process economics. There is greater literature disparity in consensus on what is the best catalyst and reactor design for hydrothermal gasification. This arises from the limited research on catalysis in continuous flow hydrothermal systems and rudimentary lab-scale experimentation on simple biomasses. This review summarizes the literature status of catalytic hydrothermal processing, especially for continuous gasification and in situ catalyst handling. The rationale for using low and high temperatures during catalytic hydrothermal processing is highlighted. The role of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts in hydrothermal gasification is presented. In addition, the rationale behind certain designs and component selection for catalytic investigations in continuous hydrothermal conversion is highlighted. Furthermore, the effect of different classes of catalysts on the reactor and reactions are elaborated. Overall, design and infrastructural challenges such as plugging, corrosion, agglomeration of the catalysts, catalyst metal leaching, and practical assessment of catalyst integration towards enhancement of process economics still present open questions. Therefore, strategies for catalytic configuration in continuous hydrothermal process must be evaluated on a system-by-system basis depending on the feedstock and experimental goals.
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Open AccessArticle
Calculation of the Rate Constants of Vacuum Residue Hydrogenation Reactions in the Presence of a Chrysotile/NiTi Nanocatalyst
by
Nazerke Balpanova, Murzabek Baikenov, Assanali Ainabayev, Aikorkem Kyzkenova, Gulzhan Baikenova and Almas Tusipkhan
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 364-374; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030021 - 23 Aug 2024
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The paper presents the results of an investigation into the kinetics of catalytic hydrogenation of vacuum residue at temperatures of 380, 400 and 420 °C and different durations, ranging from 30 to 70 min, using a nanocatalyst containing the active metals nickel and
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The paper presents the results of an investigation into the kinetics of catalytic hydrogenation of vacuum residue at temperatures of 380, 400 and 420 °C and different durations, ranging from 30 to 70 min, using a nanocatalyst containing the active metals nickel and titanium supported on chrysotile. It was found that the yield of oils from 30 to 50 wt.% and tars from 12 to 18 wt.% increased with increasing temperatures and reaction times. A slight increase in the proportion of solids in the range of 2.0 to 6.0 wt.% is explained by the activity of the nanocatalyst used. In the study of the kinetics of vacuum residue hydrogenation, using the nanocatalyst developed by the authors, we were able to achieve a low yield of solids with a short contact time as well as a high yield of low-molecular-weight compounds such as oils and tars. To determine the kinetic parameters (rate constants and activation energies), Simpson’s integral method and a random search engine optimization method were used. High values of rate constants are characteristic of reactions in the formation of oils k1, tars k2 and asphaltenes k3 in the temperature range of 380–420 °C. The high values of the rate constants k1, k2 and k3 in the catalytic hydrogenation of the vacuum residue indicate the high reaction rate and activity of the nanocatalyst used. With an increase in temperature from 380 to 420 °C, the rate constant of the formation of gas products from vacuum residue and the conversion of asphaltenes into oils significantly increase, which indicates the accumulation of low-molecular-weight compounds in oils. The activation energy for reactions leading to the formation of oils, tars, asphaltenes, gas and solid products was 75.7, 124.8, 40.7, 205.4 and 57.2 kJ/mol, respectively. These data indicate that the processes of vacuum residue hydrogenation with the formation of oils and asphaltenes require the lowest energy inputs. Reducing the process temperature to increase the selectivity of the vacuum residue hydrogenation process when using the prepared nanocatalyst is recommended. The formation of oils at the initial stage plays a key role in the technology of the heavy hydrocarbon feedstock (HHF) hydrogenation process. Perhaps the resulting oils can serve as an additional solvent for high-molecular-weight products such as asphaltenes, as evidenced by the low activation energy of the process.
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Open AccessArticle
Comparative Analysis of Aeroshell 500 Oil Effects on Jet A and Diesel-Powered Aviation Microturbines
by
Grigore Cican, Radu Mirea and Maria Căldărar
Fuels 2024, 5(3), 347-363; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels5030020 - 1 Aug 2024
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This study aims to analyze the influence of adding Aeroshell 500 oil on physicochemical properties. It was found that the oil’s kinematic viscosity is much higher than that of diesel and Jet A, with a higher density and flash point as well. Elemental
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This study aims to analyze the influence of adding Aeroshell 500 oil on physicochemical properties. It was found that the oil’s kinematic viscosity is much higher than that of diesel and Jet A, with a higher density and flash point as well. Elemental analysis revealed a higher carbon content and lower hydrogen content in Aeroshell oil compared to Jet A and diesel, with lower calorific power. Adding 5% oil increases the mixture viscosity, flash point, and density; decreases the calorific power; and increases the carbon content for both diesel and Jet A. In the second part, mathematical models determined the combustion temperatures for Jet A, diesel, Jet A plus 5% Aeroshell 500 oil, and diesel plus 5% Aeroshell 500 oil, based on an air excess from one to five. Elemental analysis determined the oxygen and air quantities for these mixtures and stoichiometric combustion reaction for CO2 and H2O. Regarding the CO2 quantity, adding 5% Aeroshell 500 to Jet A increases it from 3.143 kg to 3.159 kg for each kilogram of mixture burned in the stoichiometric reaction. Similarly, adding the oil to diesel in a 5% proportion increases the CO2 quantity from 3.175 to 3.190 in the stoichiometric reaction. Through experimentation with the Jet Cat P80 microturbine engine across four operating regimes, it was observed that the combustion chamber temperature and fuel flow rate are lower when using diesel with a 5% addition of Aeroshell 500 oil compared to Jet A with the same additive. However, the thrust is slightly higher with diesel + 5% Aeroshell 500 oil. Moreover, the specific fuel consumption is higher in regimes one and two for diesel + 5% Aeroshell 500 oil compared to Jet A + 5% Aeroshell 500 oil, while the differences are negligible in regimes three and four. At maximum operating conditions, the excess air was determined from the measured values, comparing the combustion chamber temperature with the calculated value, with a 7% error, extrapolating the results for the scenario when oil is not used. Also, during the testing campaign, the concentrations of CO and SO2 in the exhaust gas jet were measured, with higher concentrations of CO and SO2 observed for diesel compared to Jet A.
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