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Novel Ni Alloy Catalysts for Light Alkane Dehydrogenation

Summary

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a two-step catalytic process, and improved catalysts for both process steps, for the conversion of shale gas hydrocarbons to higher molecular weight hydrocarbons useful for chemicals and fuels. This process requires fewer processing steps, less capital investment, and lower energy use when compared to existing technologies. This process applies to both large- and small-scale applications including near the shale gas wellhead. As natural gas production increases, there is a potential $20 billion market for conversion of ethane, propane, and butane to liquid fuels.

Technology Benefits

Fewer processing steps Low capital investmentLow energy use

Technology Application

Oil companiesTechnology companiesRefineriesJet and diesel fuels

Detailed Technology Description

Jeffrey T. MillerPurdue Catalysis CenterNSF Center for Innovative and Strategic Transformation of Alkane Resources (CISTAR)Purdue Chemical Engineering

Countries

United States

Application No.

None

*Abstract

None

*Background

Ethane, propane, butane, and higher gas hydrocarbons are derived from shale gas and expensive to transport from remote production locations. In addition, the markets for their use are saturated, which means additional hydrocarbons have low value. The existing methods for converting light alkanes into chemicals are expensive. However, transportation fuels have a very large market with high values. A method for increasing production of transportation fuels will lead to increasing value of shale gas fields and low cost fuels for the nation.

*IP Issue Date

None

*IP Type

Provisional

*Stage of Development

Proof of Concept

*Web Links

Purdue Office of Technology CommercializationPurdue Innovation and EntrepreneurshipJeffrey T. MillerPurdue Catalysis CenterNSF Center for Innovative and Strategic Transformation of Alkane Resources (CISTAR)Purdue Chemical Engineering

Country/Region

USA