What is coal to liquids?

Coal to liquids is a term describing processes for converting coal into liquid fuels such as gasoline and diesel. Currently, the major coal-to-liquids production process is the Fischer-Tropsch process, involving conversion of coal into gas and then into liquids. Several processes that convert coal directly into liquids (direct liquefaction) also exist.

Coal to Liquids for Alternative Fuels

Coal-to-liquids processes have the potential to produce a range of useful fuels and chemicals. These include transportation fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and methanol. Producing liquid transportation fuels from coal using the Fischer-Tropsch process has been demonstrated on a large scale.

One major benefit of coal-to-liquids fuels is their compatibility with currently existing vehicle technologies and fuel distribution systems. Coal-derived gasoline and diesel could be transported through existing pipelines, dispensed at existing fueling stations, and used to fuel today's gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles.