The production of synthetic liquid transport fuels has been looked to as a replacement for the rapidly depleting traditional oil resource. The raw fuel feeds for the production of synthetic fuels have variously been natural gas, lignite and coal. Alas over more than a decade none of many proposed projects have come to fruition.
This talk will look at the technologies for the production of various synthetic transport fuels, economic, social/political and environmental challenges, the co-production of electricity, and potential synergies with other fossil fuel based production scenarios for chemicals and fertilisers.
The potential for synthetic fuels production in Queensland will be specifically addressed with respect to GTL and CTL.
In conclusion, the talk will seek to explore the requirements for creating a pathway for GTL and/or CTL production, and consider a realistic timeframe for the establishment of such a significant change to Australia’s fuels outlook.
The speaker:
Dr. Michael C. Clarke, CPEng., FIEAust., FAusIMM., RPEQ (Mining & Chemical)
Consultant: Energy Infrastructure Development & Fuel Resource Management
Principal of M.E.T.T.S. Pty. Ltd.
Mike Clarke has qualifications in mining, chemical and environmental engineering. Mike is a consulting engineer and has been an academic and project developer. Part of his consulting practice has been involved in designing fuel substitution systems for power stations and the utilisation of poor quality coal. Mike is a fellow of the Institution of Engineers Australia, fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, a member of the Waste Management Association of Australia and a member of the Australian Nuclear Association - Queensland.
Mike is presently consulting to Central Petroleum Ltd regarding future fuel gas development from the company's extensive coal resources and on the recovery and monetisation of the company's helium and natural gas prospects. Other recent consulting has included, fine coal rejects recovery in central Queensland (BMA, Brisbane), the design of efficient desalination plant for brackish water from CSM extraction (TSI-Asia Ltd, Bangkok), a conceptual mine design (Australia Pacific Coal), the potential for carbon capture and storage in S. E. Asia (Asian Development Bank, Manila), the management of ventilation air methane – VAM (Vale Australia Ltd), and the development of a lignite deposit in Pakistan (Asian Development Bank, Manila).
Cost to attend:
Members of IChemE/EA: $10
Non members: $15
Students: Free
