Economics and siting of Fischer-Tropsch coal liquefaction

Technical Report · Sun Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1979

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/5453786· OSTI ID:5453786

Henry, Jr, J P; Ferreira, J P; Benefiel, J; Fassett, M

The capital intensity and low conversion efficiency of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis makes it noncompetitive with conventional petroleum in the midterm (e.g., 5 to 10 years) under normal economic conditions. However, if crude oil prices rise to higher levels (e.g., $25 to $30/bbl), coal liquefaction processes may prove to be economical. It appears that several other processes under development may become economically attractive before Fischer-Tropsch, although Fischer-Tropsch is the only proven commercially feasible venture at present. The above statement is subject, however, to the successful demonstration and commercialization of these alternative processes. Fischer-Tropsch, as a commercially proven process, may be called upon as a backup should petroleum shortages ensue, world oil prices continue to increase dramatically, and alternate coal liquefaction processes fail to fully develop.

• Research Organization: Booz, Allen and Hamilton, Inc., Bethesda, MD (USA)
• OSTI ID: 5453786
• Report Number(s): DOE/ET/2625-9
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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