REPORT ON EUROPEAN DEVELOPMENT RELATING
TO SYNTHETIC LIQUID FUEL PROCESSES
BY
M.A. ELLIOTT
Introduction
Immediately after World War II, German developments in synthetic liquid fuel production as well as in other fields were thoroughly investigated and reported on by various technical missions. In connection with these investigations, representatives of the Bureau of Mines engaged in such activities we’re able to obtain first-hand information on developments in Great Britain and other European countries. Approximately 5 years have elapsed since such reports were obtained; accordingly, it was considered advisable for the Bureau of Mines to renew personal contacts with individuals in Europe active in work in work related to synthetic liquid fuel processes. The Bureau of Mines was represented in this activity by W.C. Schroeder, Chief, Synthetic Liquid Fuels Branch, Washington, D.C., L.L. Hirst, Chief, Coal to Oil Demonstration Branch, Louisiana, Missouri and the writer, substituting for Dr. H.H. Storch, Chief, Research and Development Branch, Bruceton, Pennsylvania, who was unable to make the trip.
This report summarizes the information obtained on the gas synthesis process, on gasification, and on hydrogenation. A short section on the testing of Diesel engines for underground use is also included.
The trip extended from July 7, 1950 to August 10, 1950.