We conduct research into methods for direct gas to liquid fuel conversion, which has significant implications in the utilisation of stranded natural gas resources.
In the direct partial oxidation approach, methane and other light hydrocarbons are partially oxidised with oxygen, aided by a homogeneous catalyst to form methanol, which can then be easily transported from remote locations and can be either used as a fuel or an intermediate for manufacturing of other fuels or chemicals. The photo to the right shows the flow reactor used for this research.
An alternative new approach being studied is to integrate non-thermal plasma and catalyst to facilitate conversion of natural gas, steam and CO2 into ethanol with hydrogen as the by-product, which is separated by a membrane.
University information
CRICOS Code: 00126G
