Method for Converting Unsaturated Light Hydrocarbons to Unsaturated Heavy Hydrocarbons, Metal Organic Framework Composition to Be Used as Catalyst, and Method or Preparing a Metal Organic Framework

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a method to convert light, unsaturated hydrocarbons (such as ethylene, propylene, etc., with 2-8 carbon atoms) into heavier unsaturated hydrocarbons (with 9-18 carbon atoms, preferably 10-16) using specially designed metal-organic framework (MOF) catalysts. The patent also covers specific compositions of the MOF catalysts—particularly those with tailored active sites and specific pore sizes (notably based on a structure called NU-1000)—and methods for preparing these catalysts. These MOFs provide a well-defined porous structure that supports efficient oligomerization of small hydrocarbons into larger ones suitable for use as advanced, sustainable transportation fuels such as jet fuel.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by converting biomass-derived light hydrocarbons to higher molecular weight hydrocarbons in the jet fuel range.
• Upgrading of light hydrocarbon streams in petroleum refineries or chemical plants to more valuable, heavier hydrocarbon products (e.g., high-octane fuels, specialty chemicals).
• Utilization in biorefineries for converting renewable feedstocks (such as methanol-derived olefins) into advanced transportation fuels.
• Replacement or supplementation of traditional zeolite-based catalysts where increased product selectivity or diffusion of larger molecules is required.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables efficient conversion of light, unsaturated hydrocarbons to heavier, high-value hydrocarbons that are specifically in the range needed for jet fuel.
• Improved catalyst design (MOFs with tailored pore size and active sites) overcomes diffusion and selectivity issues common in traditional catalysts like zeolites, leading to higher yields and less by-product formation.
• The MOF catalyst can be specifically engineered for target product selectivity, offering flexibility for different fuel or chemical outputs.
• Facilitates the production of sustainable fuels from non-petroleum sources, supporting decarbonization goals in sectors like aviation.
• Process can be performed in continuous (streamwise) or batch modes, allowing for integration into existing chemical manufacturing setups.

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Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for converting a first hydrocarbon composition to a second hydrocarbon composition. Furthermore, the invention relates to a metal organic framework (MOF) composition configured to be used as MOF catalyst in a method for converting a first hydrocarbon composition to a second hydrocarbon composition. Finally, the invention relates to a method of preparing said MOF composition.