A compilation of articles from expert contributors, this volume focuses on three main themes: catalyst preparation and activation, reaction mechanism, and process-related topics. The book demonstrates that while the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) has advanced in maturity, many issues remain concerning the preparation of increasingly active catalysts and the method of activation to attain the maximum catalytic activity and catalyst life. The book includes coverage of the structural features, their changes, and the application of increasingly sophisticated characterization techniques, shedding light on the reaction mechanism and providing a glimpse into the processes and reaction rates under realistic commercial process conditions.

The first book of its kind, Alcoholic Fuels describes the latest production methods from various biomass sources, such as corn, wood, and landfill waste for different alcohol fuel types-- including ethanol and butanol--and applications such as fuel cells, reformers, and generators. A vital source for anyone working on alternative energy sources, the book examines the history of the technology and the potential for decreasing our dependency on oil and environmentally toxic power sources. It also discusses future opportunities and challenges for utilizing alcoholic fuels and provides current and reliable data comparing the performance and the environmental impact of various alcoholic fuels.

Newly revised, the second edition of this pioneering work addresses emerging factors affecting energy production and use, including the availability and desirability of various fuels. The text provides extensive discussion on hydrogen sources, both solar and nuclear, and fuel cell technology, as well as other alternative fuels such as biomass, and wind power. It delves into cost analysis, regulatory issues, barriers to implementation, conversion and storage systems, thermodynamic efficiency, fuel chain efficiency, air emission issues, and well as safety. The book also covers natural gas hydrogen gas, methanol, ethanol, and steam reforming.

APCOM is a respected peer-reviewed forum for industrial and research communities working in the mineral industry to share and stimulate the application of computer and operations research technology. The theme of this symposium focuses the tools used to gain value from the largely data and information systems that are ubiquitous throughout modern mining operations.

These proceedings cover a wide range of topics, such as, mining ang metallurgy, cementitious materials, refractories, slags and ashes from thermal waste treatment and energy production and cultural heritage.

Based on Harold McNair′s best–selling industry guide, Basic Chromatography, this updated and enlarged book blends coverage of principles with practical information on the instrumentation, operation, applications and limitations of gas chromatography––one of the most popular techniques for analyzing substances.

This book examines the development of big business in Russia since the early 1990s, explaining how post-Soviet enterprises - many of which made little sense as business units - were restructured into functional firms. It includes detailed case studies of three leading companies: Yukos Oil Company, Siberian (Russian) Aluminium and Norilsk Nickel.