Gasification

ExxonMobil is working with others to develop next-generation technology for gasification. Gasification allows any feedstock that contains carbon — coal, coke or biomass — to be converted into “synthesis gas” that can be used to produce electricity, or converted into chemicals or transportation fuels.

The technology being developed will focus on development of a gasification-reactor system, which has the potential to offer significant cost advantages compared to conventional approaches. The goal is to improve efficiency and reduce the cost of gasification, which still is costly relative to alternative ways of producing the same products. When combined with carbon capture and storage, increased use of gasification could reduce greenhouse-gas emissions associated with coal.

Beyond gasification, ExxonMobil has other proprietary technologies that are capable of converting synthesis gas or methanol produced from synthesis gas to transportation fuels, lubricants and chemicals.