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Simulated Petrol Synthesis

A computer simulation of processes involved in petrol synthesis may lead to a more efficient production of synthetic gasoline from methanol.

The postgraduate research project by Victoria University student Peter Nelson is looking at how coke molecules form in the zeolite catalyst used in petrol synthesis.

Important reactions take place within the zeolite crystals, but these are blocked by the formation of large coke molecules, reducing the efficiency of the process. The computer simulation models different conditions which retard or enhance coking. It is hoped this will lead to identification of the optimum conditions for reactions.