Assessment of Conversion Technologies for Bioalcohol Fuel ...

to produce Ecalene. The Ecalene fuel production process is also suited for use with
larger IGCC systems, such as the GE Energy Gasifier, formerly the Chevron/Texaco
technology, and the e-gas gasifier from Conoco Phillips.
Development Status–PEFI has not reported on its actual technology development
activities or results to date. However, the company claims to currently have the
capability to produce and sell the mixed alcohol Ecalene, and is pursuing funding for
projects. The company is working with modular designs with production capacities of
from 21,000 to 30,000 gallons per day, intended to be close to the feedstock supply
source. The process can reportedly employ a wide variety of agricultural, forestry and
municipal waste feedstocks. Ecalene, said to have a blending octane value of 124, is
registered with the United States Environmental Protection Agency as a fuel additive,
and has potential applications as a neat fuel in hydrous or anhydrous form.
Future Development Plans–PEFI is currently working with a large oil company as
well as Eastman Kodak on the large IGCC plant. The company will continue to
develop their downdraft gasifier while searching for additional funding. The company’s
business plan incorporates various approaches to commercializing the Ecalene
process, including plant licensing agreements, production royalties, new plant sales,
and joint venture partnerships.
Figure A3. PEFI Fuel Process Diagram
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