ES2400542T3 - Fuel compositions for jet engines - Google Patents

Abstract

A fuel composition comprising: (a) limonane in an amount that is at least 5% by volume, based on the total volume of the fuel composition; and (b) farnesan in an amount that is at least 5% by volume, based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

Description

Fuel compositions for jet engines.

[0001] This specification provides, among other things, fuel compositions and methods of use thereof. In some embodiments, the fuel compositions comprise at least one fuel component produced easily and efficiently, at least in part, from a microorganism. In some embodiments, the fuel compositions provided herein comprise a high concentration of at least one fuel component designed by bioengineering. The fuel compositions provided herein comprise limonano and farnesano.

[0002] Biofuels include fuels derived from biomass, for example, from recent living organisms or their metabolic by-products, such as animal manure. Biofuels are convenient because they can be renewable energy sources, unlike other natural resources such as oil, coal and nuclear fuels. It is still necessary to introduce a biofuel that is suitable for use as fuel for jet engines. The present invention provides such biofuels.

[0003] The present specification provides, among other things, fuel compositions comprising limonane and farnesan and methods of use thereof. In some embodiments, the fuel composition comprises a fuel component produced easily and efficiently, at least in part, from a microorganism.

[0004] In one aspect, a fuel composition comprising limonano and farnesano is provided herein in which each between the limonano and the farnesano is in an amount that is at least 5% by volume, based on in the total volume of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the density of the fuel composition disclosed herein at 15 ° C is between 775 kg / m3 and 840 kg / m3 or is 775 kg / m3 at 840 kg / m3. In some embodiments, the fuel composition disclosed herein further comprises p-cimeno in an amount that is at least 0.5% by volume, based on the total volume of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the fuel composition disclosed herein further comprises a petroleum-based fuel or a synthetic fuel, for example, a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process, in an amount that is at least 10% by volume, based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0005] In another aspect, a fuel composition is provided herein which comprises (a) limonane in an amount that is between 15% and 60% by volume or is 15% to 60% by volume; (b) farnesan in an amount that is between 5% and 45% by volume or is 5% to 45% by volume;

(c) p-cimeno in an amount that is 0.5% to 25% by volume; and (d) a petroleum-based fuel or a synthetic fuel, for example, a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process, in an amount that is at least 20% by volume, in which the amounts are based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0006] In another aspect, a fuel composition is provided herein comprising (a) limonane in an amount that is between 15% and 30% by volume or is 15% to 30% by volume; (b) farnesan in an amount that is between 10% and 30% by volume or is 10% to 30% by volume; (c) p-cimeno in an amount that is 0.5% to 20% by volume; (d) a petroleum-based fuel or a synthetic fuel, for example, a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process, in an amount that is at least 40% by volume; and (e) a fuel additive, in which the amounts are based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0007] In some embodiments, the fuel composition disclosed herein has a density of 750 kg / m3 at 840 kg / m3 at 15 ° C. In some embodiments, the fuel composition has a difference between temperatures T90 and T10 of at least 10 ° C. In some embodiments, the fuel composition disclosed herein has a density of 750 kg / m3 at 840 kg / m3 at 15 ° C, and the fuel composition disclosed in the present specification has a difference between temperatures T90 and T10 of at least 10 ° C.

[0008] In another aspect, a fuel composition consisting essentially of limonano, farnesano and cimeno is provided herein.

[0009] In another aspect, a vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine is provided herein; a fuel tank connected to the internal combustion engine; and a fuel composition disclosed herein in the fuel tank, in which the fuel composition is used to feed the internal combustion engine. In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine is a jet engine.

[0010] In another aspect, in the present specification there is provided a method of feeding an engine comprising the combustion stage of a fuel composition disclosed in the present specification in the engine. In some embodiments, the engine is a jet engine.

[0011] In some embodiments, the lemon in the fuel compositions disclosed herein is or comprises

or a combination thereof.

[0012] In some embodiments, the farnesan in the fuel compositions disclosed herein is or comprises

or a combination thereof.

[0013] In some embodiments, the fuel compositions disclosed herein are a petroleum-based fuel or a synthetic fuel. In further embodiments, the petroleum-based fuel in the fuel compositions disclosed herein is selected from kerosene, Jet A, Jet A-1, Jet B and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the synthetic fuel is or comprises a fuel based on the Fischer process.

30 Tropsch In additional embodiments, the fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process is or comprises synthetic fuel for SASOL CTL jet engines. In some embodiments, the fuel compositions disclosed herein meet the ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet A, Jet A-1 or Jet B. In other embodiments, the fuel composition disclosed herein. Meets Standard Defense 91-91 specification for synthetic fuel for

35 SASOL CTL jet engines.

[0014] In some embodiments, the fuel compositions disclosed herein further comprise a fuel additive. In other embodiments, the fuel additive is at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an oxygenated compound, an antioxidant, a thermal stability enhancer, a stabilizer, a cold flow enhancer, an energy enhancer combustion, a defoamer, an anti-haze additive, a corrosion inhibitor, a lubricity enhancer, a freeze inhibitor, an injector cleaning additive, a smoke suppressor, a drag reduction additive, a metal deactivator, a dispersant, a detergent, a demulsifier, a dye, a label, a static dissipator, a biocide and combinations thereof. In additional embodiments, the fuel additive is an antioxidant.

[0015] Figure 1 shows distillation curves for Jet A and certain mixtures of Jet A and AMJ-300. Figure 2 shows distillation curves for Jet A and certain mixtures of Jet A and AMJ-310.

[0016] Figure 3 shows distillation curves for some embodiments of the fuel compositions disclosed herein.

[0017] Figure 4 shows the relative fuel flow required to execute the ignition at different pressure drop in the injector (dP / P) for some embodiments of fuel compositions disclosed herein. The comparison is made with reference to the fuel flow required to execute the ignition for Jet A-1.

[0018] Figure 5 shows relative fuel flow required to perform a poor mixture shutdown at different pressure drop in the injector (dP / P) for some embodiments of fuel compositions disclosed herein. The comparison is made with reference to the fuel flow required to perform a poor mix shutdown for Jet A-1.

[0019] The ASTM D 1655 specifications, published by ASTM International, establish certain minimum acceptance requirements for Jet A, Jet A-1 and Jet B.

[0020] "Compound designed by bioengineering" refers to a compound prepared by a host cell, which includes any archaea, bacteria or eukaryotic cells or microorganisms.

[0021] "Biofuel" refers to any fuel that comes from a biomass, that is, recent living organisms or their metabolic by-products, such as cow dung. It is a renewable energy source, unlike other natural resources such as oil, coal and nuclear fuels.

[0022] "Density" refers to a measure of mass by volume at a particular temperature. The generally accepted procedure for measuring the density of a fuel is ASTM D 4052, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0023] "Doctor Test" is used for the detection of mercaptans in petroleum-based fuels as fuel for jet engines and kerosene. This test can also provide information on hydrogen sulfide and elemental sulfur that may be present in fuels. The generally accepted procedure for measuring the freezing point of a fuel is ASTM D 4952, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0024] "Farnesano" refers to a compound having the formula

or a stereoisomer thereof. In some embodiments, the farnesan comprises a substantially pure farnesan stereoisomer. In other embodiments, the farnesan comprises a mixture of stereoisomers, such as enantiomers and diastereomers, of farnesan. In further embodiments, the amount of each of the stereoisomers in the farnesan mixture is independently from 0.1% by weight to 99.9% by weight, from 0.5% by weight to 99.5% by weight. , from 1% by weight to 99% by weight, from 5% by weight to 95% by weight, from 10% by weight to 90% by weight, from 20% by weight to 80% by weight, based on total weight of the farnesano mixture.

[0025] "Flash point" refers to the lower temperature at which vapors above a flammable liquid will ignite in the air with the application of an ignition source. Generally, all flammable liquids have a vapor pressure, which is a function of the temperature of the liquid. When the temperature rises, the vapor pressure of the liquid decreases. When the vapor pressure increases, the concentration of the liquid evaporated in the air increases. At the flash point temperature, just enough of the liquid has evaporated to make the vapor-air space above the liquid above the lower flammability limit. For example, the flash point of gasoline is approximately -43 ° C, which is why gasoline is so highly flammable. For safety reasons, it is desirable to have much higher flash points for the fuel that is contemplated for use in jet engines. The generally accepted procedures for measuring the flash point of a fuel are ASTM D 56, ASTM D 93, ASTM D 3828-98, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0026] "Freezing point" refers to the temperature at which the last wax crystal melts, when a fuel that has previously cooled is heated until wax crystals form. The generally accepted procedure for measuring the freezing point of a fuel is ASTM D 2386.

[0027] "Fuel" refers to one or more hydrocarbons, one or more alcohols, one or more fatty esters or a mixture thereof. Preferably, liquid hydrocarbons are used. The fuel can be used to feed internal combustion engines such as alternative engines (e.g., gasoline engines and diesel engines), Wankel engines, jet engines, some rocket engines, missile engines and gas turbine engines. In some embodiments, fuel typically comprises a mixture of hydrocarbons such as alkanes, cycloalkanes and aromatic hydrocarbons. In other embodiments, fuel comprises lemon.

[0028] "Fuel additive" refers to chemical components added to a fuel to alter the properties of the fuel, for example, to improve engine performance, fuel handling, fuel stability, or for contaminant control . Types of additives include, but are not limited to, antioxidants, thermal stability enhancers, cetane enhancers, thermal stability enhancers, cold flow enhancers, combustion enhancers, defoamers, anti-stiffness additives, corrosion inhibitors , lubricity enhancers, freezing inhibitors, injector cleaning additives, smoke suppressors, drag reduction additives, metal deactivators, dispersants, detergents, demulsifiers, dyes, markers, static dissipators, biocides and combinations thereof. The term "conventional additives" refers to fuel additives known to the person skilled in the art, such as those described above, and does not include lemon.

[0029] "Fuel component" refers to any compound or a mixture of compounds that are used to formulate a fuel composition. There are "major fuel components" and "minor fuel components." A major fuel component is present in a fuel composition at least 50% by volume; and a minor fuel component is present in a fuel composition in less than 50%. Fuel additives are minor fuel components. In some embodiments, the lemon can be a major component or a minor component,

or be in a mixture with other fuel components.

[0030] "Fuel composition" refers to a fuel comprising at least two fuel components.

[0031] "Isoprenoid" and "isoprenoid compound" are used interchangeably herein and refer to a compound derived from isopentenyl diphosphate.

[0032] "Isoprenoid starting material" refers to an isoprenoid compound from which limonane can be prepared.

[0033] "Fuel for jet engines" refers to a fuel suitable for use in a jet engine.

[0034] "Kerosene" refers to a specific fractionated distillate of petroleum (also known as "crude oil"), generally between 150 ° C and 275 ° C at atmospheric pressure. Crude oils are mainly composed of hydrocarbons of the paraffinic, naphthenic and aromatic classes.

[0035] "Limonano" refers to a compound of the following formula

or stereoisomers thereof. In some embodiments, the lemongrain comprises a substantially pure stereoisomer of lemongrass. In other embodiments, the lemongrain comprises a mixture of stereoisomers, such as enantiomers and diastereoisomers, of limonane. In further embodiments, the amount of each of the stereoisomers in the lemongrass mixture is independently from 0.1% by weight to 99.9% by weight, from 0.5% by weight to 99.5% by weight. , from 1% by weight to 99% by weight, from 5% by weight to 95% by weight, from 10% by weight to 90% by weight, from 20% by weight to 80% by weight, based on total weight of the lemon mixture.

[0036] "Missile fuel" refers to a fuel suitable for use in a missile engine.

[0037] "p-cimeno" refers to the following compound

[0038] "Petroleum-based fuel" refers to a fuel that includes a distillate by petroleum fractionation.

[0039] "Synthetic fuel" refers to any liquid fuel obtained from coal, natural gas or biomass.

[0040] "Smoke point" refers to the point at which a fuel or fuel composition is heated until it decomposes and emits smoke. The generally accepted procedure for measuring the smoke point of a fuel is ASTM D 1322.

[0041] "Viscosity" refers to a measure of the resistance of a fuel or fuel composition to deform under shear stress. The generally accepted procedure for measuring the viscosity of a fuel is ASTM D 445.

[0042] As used herein, a composition that is a "substantially pure" compound is substantially free of one or more other compounds, that is, the composition contains more than 80% by volume, more than 90% in volume, more than 95% in volume, more than 96% in volume, more than 97% in volume, more than 98% in volume, more than 99% in volume, more than 99.5% in volume, more than 99 , 6% by volume, more than 99.7% by volume, more than 99.8% by volume, or more than 99.9% by volume of the compound; or less than 20% by volume, less than 10% by volume, less than 5% by volume, less than 3% by volume, less than 1% by volume, less than 0.5% by volume, less than 0.1 % by volume, or less than 0.01% by volume of one or more other compounds, based on the total volume of the composition.

[0043] As used herein, a composition that is "substantially free" of a compound means that the composition contains less than 20% by volume, less than 10% by volume, less than 5% by volume, less 4% by volume, less than 3% by volume, less than 2% by volume, less than 1% by volume, less than 0.5% by volume, less than 0.1% by volume, or less than 0, 01% by volume of the compound, based on the total volume of the composition.

[0044] As used herein, the term "stereochemically pure" means a composition that comprises a stereoisomer of a compound and that is substantially free of other stereoisomers of that compound. For example, a stereomerically pure composition of a compound having a chiral center will be substantially free of the opposite enantiomer of the compound. A stereomerically pure composition of a compound having two chiral centers will be substantially free of other diastereomers of the compound. A typical stereomerically pure compound comprises more than 80% by weight of a stereoisomer of the compound and less than 20% by weight of other stereoisomers of the compound, more preferably more than 90% by weight of a stereoisomer of the compound and less than 10% by weight. of the other stereoisomers of the compound, more preferably still more than 95% by weight of a stereoisomer of the compound and less than 5% by weight of the other stereoisomers of the compound, and most preferably more than 97% by weight of a stereoisomer of the compound compound and less than 3% by weight of the other stereoisomers of the compound.

[0045] As used herein, the term "enantiomerically pure" means a stereomerically pure composition of a compound having a chiral center.

[0046] As used herein, the term "racemic" or "racemate" means 50% of an enantiomer and 50% of the corresponding enantiomer with respect to all chiral centers in the molecule. The invention comprises all enantiomerically pure, enantiomerically enriched, diastereomerically pure, diastereomerically enriched and racemic mixtures of the compounds of the invention.

[0047] In addition to the above definitions, some compounds described herein have one or more double bonds that may exist as a Z or E isomer. In some embodiments, the compounds described herein are present as isomers. individual substantially free of other isomers and alternatively, as mixtures of various isomers, for example, racemic mixtures of stereoisomers.

[0048] In one aspect, the invention provides a fuel composition comprising:

(to)

 Limonene in an amount that is at least 5% by volume, based on the total volume of the fuel composition; Y

(b)

 farnesano in an amount that is at least 5% by volume, based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0049] In some embodiments, the density of the fuel composition at 15 ° C is between 775 kg / m3 and 840 kg / m3. In some embodiments, the difference between T90 (90% recovery temperature and T10 (10% recovery temperature) of the fuel composition is more than 10 ° C, it is more than 20 ° C, it is more than 30 ° C, is more than 40 ° C or is more than 50 ° C. In some embodiments, the density of the fuel composition at 15 ° C is between 775 kg / m3 and 840 kg / m3 , and the difference between T90 and T10 of the fuel composition is more than 10 ° C, it is more than 20 ° C, it is more than 30 ° C, it is more than 40 ° C or it is more than 50 ° C.

[0050] In some embodiments, the amount of limonene is 5% to 90%, 5% to 80%, 5% to 70% or 5% to 50% by weight or volume, based on weight or total volume of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the amount of lemongrass is at least 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65% , 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90% or 95% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the amount is indicated in% by weight based on the total weight of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the amount is expressed in% by volume based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0051] In other embodiments, the lemongrass is present in an amount of a maximum of 10%, a maximum of 15%, a maximum of 20%, a maximum of 25%, a maximum of 30%, a maximum of 35%, a maximum of 40%, a maximum of 45%, a maximum of 50%, a maximum of 60%, a maximum of 70%, a maximum of 80%, or a maximum of 90% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel composition. In additional embodiments, the lemongrass is present in an amount of 5% to about 90%, 7.5% to 85%, 10% to 80%, 15% to 80%, 20% to 75 %, from 25% to 60%, or from 30% to 50% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the amount is expressed in% by weight based on the total weight of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the amount is expressed in% by volume based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0052] In some embodiments, the lemon in the fuel compositions disclosed herein is or comprises

[0053] In other embodiments, the lemon in the fuel compositions disclosed herein is or comprises

[0054] In yet other embodiments, the lemon in the fuel compositions disclosed herein is or comprises a mixture comprising:

[0055] In some embodiments, the limonane is obtained from an isoprenoid starting material. In some embodiments, the isoprenoid starting material is formed by host cells by converting a carbon source into the isoprenoid starting material.

[0056] In some embodiments, the amount of farnesano is 5% to 70%, 5% to 60%, 5% to 50%, 5% to 40%, 5% to 30%, of 10% to 30%, 5% to 25%, 10% to 25%, 5% to 35%, or 10% to 35% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the composition of fuel. In other embodiments, the amount of farnesan is at most 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16% , 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, or 60% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the composition of fuel. In further embodiments, the amount of farnesan is at least 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16% , 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, or 60% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the composition of

15 fuel In some embodiments, the amount is expressed in% by weight based on the total weight of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the amount is expressed in% by volume based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0057] In other embodiments, the farnesan in the fuel compositions disclosed in the present specification is or comprises

Y

or a combination thereof.

[0058] In some embodiments, farnesan is obtained from an isoprenoid starting material. In some embodiments, the isoprenoid starting material is made by host cells by converting a carbon source into the isoprenoid starting material.

[0059] In other embodiments, the fuel compositions disclosed herein

The descriptive further comprise cimeno in an amount that is at least 0.5% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the cimeo disclosed herein may be any naturally occurring aromatic organic compound comprising a benzene ring substituted by a methyl group and an isopropyl group. In other embodiments, cimeno is p-cimeno, m-cimeno, o-cimeno or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the fuel compositions disclosed herein further comprise an aromatic compound in an amount that is at least 0.5% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the composition of fuel. In some embodiments, the aromatic compound is or comprises p-cimeno. The commercially available cimeno can be obtained from Acros Organics, Sigma-Aldrich or International Laboratory USA.

[0060] In additional embodiments, the amount of p-cimeno is 0.5% to 40% by volume or weight, 0.5% to 35% by volume or weight, 0.5% to 30% by volume or weight, from 0.5% to 25% by volume or weight, from 0.5% to 20% by volume or weight, from 0.5% to 15% by volume or weight, based on the total volume or weight of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the amount of p-cimeno is 1% to 35% by volume.

or weight, based on the total volume or weight of the fuel composition. In yet other embodiments, the amount of p-cimeno is 1% to 25%, 5% to 25%, 1% to 20%, 5 to 20%, or 10% to 20% by volume or weight, based on the total volume or weight of the fuel composition.

[0061] In some embodiments, the total amount of aromatic compounds (including any cement) in the fuel compositions is from 1% to 50% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the total amount of aromatic compounds in the fuel compositions is 15% to 35% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel compositions. In further embodiments, the total amount of aromatic compounds in the fuel compositions is 15% to 25% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel compositions. In other embodiments, the total amount of aromatic compounds in the fuel compositions is 5% to 10% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel composition. In other additional embodiments, the total amount of aromatic compounds in the fuel compositions is less than 25% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel compositions.

[0062] In other embodiments, the fuel composition further comprises a petroleum-based fuel. The amount of petroleum-based fuel in the fuel composition disclosed herein may be 5% to 90%, 5% to 85%, 5% to 80%, 5% to 70%, of the 5% to 60%, or 5% to 50%, based on the total amount of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the amount of petroleum-based fuel is less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, less than 60% , less than 55%, less than 50%, less than 45%, less than 40%, less than 35%, less than 30%, less than 25%, less than 20%, less than 15%, less than 10% , based on the total amount of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the petroleum-based fuel is at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% based on the total amount of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the amount is in% by weight based on the total weight of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the amount is in% by volume based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0063] In some embodiments, the petroleum-based fuel is kerosene. Conventional kerosene is generally a mixture of hydrocarbons, which has a boiling point of 140 ° C to 320 ° C (that is, 285 ° F to 610 ° F).

[0064] In other embodiments, the petroleum-based fuel is a jet engine fuel. Any jet engine fuel known to the person skilled in the art can be used herein. The American Society for Testing and Materials ("ASTM") and the United Kingdom Ministry of Defense ("MOD") have assumed prominent roles in defining and maintaining specifications for civil aviation turbine fuels or jet engine fuel . The respective specifications published by these two organizations are very similar but not identical. Many other countries publish their own national specifications for jet engine fuel but are almost or completely identical to the ASTM or MOD specification. ASTM D 1655 is the Specification Standard for Aviation Turbine Fuels and includes specifications for Jet A, Jet A-1 and Jet B fuels. Defense Standard 9191 is the MOD specification for Jet A-1.

[0065] Jet A-1 is the most common jet engine fuel and is produced according to an internationally standardized set of specifications. In the United States exclusively, a version of Jet A-1 known as Jet A is also used. Another jet engine fuel that is commonly used in civil aviation is called Jet B. Jet B is a lighter fuel in the region of naphtha-kerosene that is used for its best performance in cold weather. Jet A, Jet A-1 and Jet B are specified in the ASTM D 1655 specification.

[0066] Alternatively, jet engine fuels are classified by military authorities around the world with a different JP number system. Some are almost identical to their civil equivalents and differ only by the amounts of some additives. For example, Jet A-1 is similar to JP-8 and Jet B is similar to JP-4.

[0067] In some embodiments, the fuel composition further comprises a synthetic fuel. Any synthetic fuel obtained from coal, natural gas or biomass can be used in the present specification. In further embodiments, the synthetic fuel comprises a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process, a fuel based on the Bergius process, a fuel based on the Mobil process, a fuel based on the Karrick process, or a combination thereof. . In other additional embodiments, the synthetic fuel comprises a fuel based on a coal-to-liquid process (CTL fuel), a fuel based on a gas-to-liquid process (GTL fuel), a fuel based on a biomass process liquids (BTL fuel), a fuel based on a process of coal and liquid biomass (CBTL fuel), or a combination thereof.

[0068] In some embodiments, the synthetic fuel further comprises a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process. In other embodiments, the synthetic fuel further comprises a fuel based on the Bergius process. In yet other embodiments, the synthetic fuel further comprises a fuel based on the Mobil process. In yet other embodiments, the synthetic fuel further comprises a fuel based on the Karrick process.

[0069] In some embodiments, the synthetic fuel further comprises a CTL fuel. In other embodiments, the synthetic fuel further comprises a GTL fuel. In yet other embodiments, the synthetic fuel further comprises a BTL fuel. In yet other embodiments, the synthetic fuel further comprises a CBTL fuel.

[0070] In some embodiments, the synthetic fuel is a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process. In some embodiments, the fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process is or comprises various forms of liquid hydrocarbons produced by a catalyzed chemical reaction of a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen.

[0071] Any Fischer-Tropsch catalyst can be used herein. Some non-limiting examples of catalysts suitable for the preparation of the fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process are cobalt, iron, nickel and ruthenium.

[0072] In some embodiments, the fuel composition further comprises a synthetic fuel. The amount of the synthetic fuel in the fuel composition disclosed herein may be 5% to 90%, 5% to 85%, 5% to 80%, 5% to 70%, 5% to 60%, or 5% to 50%, based on the total amount of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the amount of the synthetic fuel is less than 95%, less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 75%, less than 70%, less than 65%, less than 60%, less than 55%, less than 50%, less than 45%, less than 40%, less than 35%, less than 30%, less than 25%, less than 20%, less than 15%, less than 10%, based on the total amount of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the synthetic fuel is at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% based on the total amount of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the amount is in% by weight based on the total weight of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the amount is in% by volume based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0073] A useful non-limiting example of a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process known as synthetic fuel for SASOL CTL jet engines is used in South Africa and is specified in Defense Standard 91-91.

[0074] In some embodiments, the fuel composition further comprises a fuel additive. In some embodiments, the fuel additive is from 0.1% to 50% by weight or volume, based on the total weight or volume of the fuel composition. The fuel additive can be any fuel additive known to the person skilled in the art. In additional embodiments, the fuel additive is selected from the group consisting of oxygenated compounds, antioxidants, thermal stability enhancers, stabilizers, cold flow enhancers, combustion enhancers, defoamers, anti-stiffness additives, corrosion inhibitors, lubricity enhancers, freezing inhibitors, injector cleaning additives, smoke suppressors, drag reduction additives, metal deactivators, dispersants, detergents, demulsifiers, dyes, markers, static dissipators, biocides and combinations thereof.

[0075] The amount of a fuel additive in the fuel composition disclosed herein may be 0.1% to less than 50%, 0.2% to 40%, 0.3% to 30 %, from 0.4% to 20%, from 0.5% to 15% or from 0.5% to 10%, based on the total amount of the fuel composition. In some embodiments, the amount of a fuel additive is less than 50%, less than 45%, less than 40%, less than 35%, less than 30%, less than 25%, less than 20%, less than 15%, less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 4%, less than 3%, less than 2%, less than 1% or less than 0.5%, based on the total amount of the composition made out of fuel. In some embodiments, the amount is in% by weight based on the total weight of the fuel composition. In other embodiments, the amount is in% by volume based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

[0076] Illustrative examples of fuel additives are described in greater detail below. Lubricity enhancers are an example. In some additives, the concentration of the lubricity enhancer in the fuel is in the range of 1 ppm to 50,000 ppm, preferably 10 ppm to 20,000 ppm, and more preferably 25 ppm to 10,000 ppm. Some non-limiting examples of lubricity enhancers include fatty acid esters.

[0077] Stabilizers improve the storage stability of the fuel composition. Some non-limiting examples of stabilizers include primary amines of tertiary alkyls. The stabilizer may be present in the fuel composition at a concentration of 0.001% by weight to 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the fuel composition, and in an embodiment of 0.01% by weight at 1 % in weigh.

[0078] Combustion enhancers increase the mass combustion rate of the fuel composition. Some non-limiting examples of combustion enhancers include ferrocene (dicyclopentadienyl iron), iron-based combustion enhancers (e.g., Turbotect TURBOTECT ™ ER-18 (USA) Inc., Tomball, Texas), combustion enhancers with base barium, cerium-based combustion enhancers and iron-magnesium-based combustion enhancers (for example, TURBOTECT ™ 703 from Turbotect (USA) Inc., Tomball, Texas). The combustion enhancer may be present in the fuel composition at a concentration of 0.001% by weight to 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the fuel composition, and in an embodiment of 0.01% by weight at 1% by weight.

[0079] Antioxidants prevent the formation of gum deposits in fuel system components caused by the oxidation of storage fuels and / or inhibit the formation of peroxide compounds in certain fuel compositions that can be used herein. . The antioxidant may be present in the fuel composition at a concentration of 0.001% by weight to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the fuel composition, and in an embodiment of 0.01% by weight at 1 % in weigh.

[0080] Static heatsinks reduce the effects of static electricity generated by the movement of fuels through high-speed fuel transfer systems. The static heatsink may be present in the fuel composition at a concentration of 0.001% by weight to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the fuel composition, and in an embodiment of 0.01% by weight at 1% by weight.

[0081] Corrosion inhibitors protect ferrous metals from corrosion in fuel handling systems such as pipes, and fuel storage tanks. In circumstances where additional lubricity is desired, corrosion inhibitors can be used that also improve the lubrication properties of the composition. The corrosion inhibitor may be present in the fuel composition at a concentration of 0.001% by weight to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the fuel composition, and in an embodiment of 0.01% by weight at 1% by weight.

[0082] Fuel system freezing inhibitors (also referred to as antifreeze additive) reduce the freezing point of water that precipitates from jet engine fuels due to cooling at high altitudes and prevents the formation of ice crystals that limit the fuel flow to the engine. Some fuel system freeze inhibitors can also act as a biocide. The freezing inhibitor of the fuel system may be present in the fuel composition at a concentration of 0.001% by weight to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the fuel composition, and in an embodiment of 0, 01% by weight to 1% by weight.

[0083] Biocides are used to combat microbial growth in the fuel composition. The biocide may be present in the fuel composition at a concentration of 0.001% by weight to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the fuel composition, and in an embodiment of 0.01% by weight at 1 % in weigh.

[0084] Metal deactivators suppress the catalytic effect of some metals, particularly copper, on the oxidation of fuel. The metal deactivator may be present in the fuel composition at a concentration of 0.001% by weight to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the fuel composition, and in an embodiment of 0.01% by weight at 1% by weight.

[0085] Thermal stability enhancers are used to inhibit the formation of deposits in the high temperature areas of the aviation fuel system. The thermal stability enhancer may be present in the fuel composition at a concentration of 0.001% by weight to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the fuel composition, and in an embodiment of 0.01% by weight at 1% by weight.

[0086] In some embodiments, the fuel composition has a flash point greater than 32 ° C, greater than 33 ° C, greater than 34 ° C, greater than 35 ° C, greater than 36 ° C, greater than 37 ° C, greater than 38 ° C, greater than 39 ° C, greater than 40 ° C, greater than 41 ° C, greater than 42 ° C, greater than 43 ° C, or greater than 44 ° C. In other embodiments, the fuel composition has a flash point greater than 38 ° C. In some embodiments, the flash point of the fuel composition disclosed herein is measured according to ASTM D 56. In other embodiments, the flash point of the fuel composition disclosed herein. Descriptive is measured according to ASTM D Standard

93. In additional embodiments, the flash point of the fuel composition disclosed herein is measured according to ASTM D 3828-98. In other additional embodiments, the flash point of the fuel composition disclosed herein is measured according to any conventional procedure for a person skilled in the art for measuring the flash point of fuels.

[0087] In some embodiments, the fuel composition has a density at 15 ° C of 750 kg / m3 to 850 kg / m3, 750 kg / m3 to 845 kg / m3, 750 kg / m3 to 840 kg / m3, 760 kg / m3 to 845 kg / m3, 770 kg / m3 to 850 kg / m3, 770 kg / m3 to 845 kg / m3, 775 kg / m3 to 850 kg / m3 or 775 kg / m3 to 845 kg / m3. In other embodiments, the fuel composition has a density at 15 ° C of 780 kg / m3 to 845 kg / m3. In yet other embodiments, the fuel composition has a density at 15 ° C of 775 kg / m3 to 840 kg / m3. In yet other embodiments, the fuel composition has a density at 15 ° C of 750 kg / m3 to 805 kg / m3. In some embodiments, the density of the fuel composition disclosed herein is measured according to ASTM D 4052. In additional embodiments, the density of the fuel composition disclosed in the present specification is measured according to Any conventional procedure for a person skilled in the art for measuring fuel density.

[0088] In some embodiments, the fuel composition has a freezing point that is less than -30 ° C, less than -40 ° C, less than -50 ° C, less than -60 ° C, less than -70 ° C, or less than -80 ° C. In other embodiments, the fuel composition has a freezing point of -80 ° C to -30 ° C, 75 ° C to -35 ° C, -70 ° C to -40 ° C or -65 ° C to -45 ° C. In some embodiments, the freezing point of the fuel composition disclosed herein is measured according to ASTM D 2386. In additional embodiments, the freezing point of the fuel composition disclosed herein. Descriptive is measured according to any conventional procedure for a person skilled in the art to measure the freezing point of fuels.

[0089] In some embodiments, the fuel composition has a density at 15 ° C of 750 kg / m3 to 850 kg / m3, and a flash point equal to or greater than 38 ° C. In some embodiments, the fuel composition has a density at 15 ° C of 750 kg / m3 to 850 kg / m3, a flash point equal to or greater than 38 ° C, and a freezing point less than -40 ° C. In some embodiments, the fuel composition has a density at 15 ° C of 750 kg / m3 to 840 kg / m3, a flash point equal to or greater than 38 ° C, and a freezing point less than -40 ° C.

[0090] In some embodiments, the fuel composition has an initial boiling point that is between 140 ° C and 170 ° C. In other embodiments, the fuel composition has a final boiling point between 180 ° C and 300 ° C. In yet other embodiments, the fuel composition has an initial boiling point between 140 ° C and 170 ° C, and a final boiling point is between 180 ° C and 300 ° C. In some embodiments, the fuel composition meets the distillation specification of ASTM D 86.

[0091] In some embodiments, the fuel composition has a Thermal Oxidation Test Temperature of Jet Engine Fuels (JFTOT) that is equal to or greater than 245 ° C. In other embodiments, the fuel composition has a JFTOT temperature that is equal to or greater than 250 ° C, equal to or greater than 255 ° C, equal to or greater than 260 ° C, or equal to or greater than 265 ° C.

[0092] In some embodiments, the fuel composition has a viscosity at -20 ° C that is less than 6 mm2 / sec, less than 7 mm2 / sec, less than 8 mm2 / sec, less than 9 mm2 / sec or less than 10 mm2 / sec. In some embodiments, the viscosity of the fuel composition disclosed herein is measured according to ASTM D 445.

[0093] In some other embodiments, the fuel composition has a density at 15 ° C between 750 and 840 kg / m3, has a flash point that is equal to or greater than 38 ° C; and a freezing point that is less than -40 ° C. In yet other embodiments, the petroleum-based fuel is Jet A and the fuel composition meets the ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet A. In some embodiments, the fuel composition is a fuel based on the Fischer process. Tropsch that meets the ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet A. In yet other embodiments, the petroleum-based fuel is Jet A-1 and the fuel composition meets the ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet A-1. In some embodiments, the fuel composition is a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process that meets the ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet A-1. In yet other embodiments, the petroleum-based fuel is Jet B and the fuel composition meets the ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet B. In some embodiments, the fuel composition is a fuel based on the Fischer process. Tropsch that meets the ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet B.

[0094] In another aspect, fuel compositions comprising (a) limonane in an amount that is between 15% and 60% by volume are provided herein; (b) farnesan in an amount that is between 5% and 45% by volume; (c) p-cimeno in an amount that is 0.5% to 25% by volume; and (d) a petroleum-based fuel or a synthetic fuel, for example, a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process, in an amount that is at least 20% by volume, on which all quantities are based in the total volume of the fuel composition and the fuel composition it has a density of 750 kg / m3 at 840 kg / m3 at 15 ° C, and a difference between the temperatures T90 and T10 of at least 10 ° C.

[0095] In other embodiments, the difference between temperatures T90 and T10 is at least 20 ° C, is at least 30 ° C, is at least 40 ° C, is at least 50 ° C, is at least 60 ° C, is at least 70 ° C or is more than 75 ° C.

[0096] In another aspect, fuel compositions comprising (a) limonane in an amount that is between 15% and 30% by volume are provided herein; (b) farnesan in an amount that is between 10% and 30% by volume; (c) p-cimeno in an amount that is 0.5% to 20% by volume; (d) a petroleum-based fuel or a synthetic fuel, for example, a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process, in an amount that is at least 40% by volume; and (e) a fuel additive, in which all amounts are based on the total volume of the fuel composition and the fuel composition has a density of 750 kg / m3 at 840 kg / m3 at 15 ° C, a flash point equal to or greater than 38 ° C, a freezing point less than -40 ° C, and a difference between temperatures T90 and T10 of at least 10 ° C. In some embodiments, the fuel additive is at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an oxygenated compound, an antioxidant, a thermal stability enhancer, a stabilizer, a cold flow enhancer, an energy enhancer combustion, a defoamer, an anti-haze additive, a corrosion inhibitor, a lubricity enhancer, a freeze inhibitor, an injector cleaning additive, a smoke suppressor, a drag reduction additive, a metal deactivator, a dispersant, a detergent, a demulsifier, a dye, a label, a static dissipator, a biocide and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the fuel additive is an antioxidant.

[0097] In other embodiments, the fuel composition described above meets ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet A-1. In other embodiments, the fuel composition meets the ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet A. In yet other embodiments, the fuel composition meets the ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet B.

[0098] In another aspect, fuel compositions consisting essentially of limone, farnesan and cimeno are provided herein.

Fuel Composition Applications

[0099] The fuel composition disclosed herein can be stored in

or be received by a fuel container as a fuel tank. A fuel tank is generally a safe container for flammable liquids. In some embodiments, the fuel tank is a part of a combustion engine system in which a fuel is stored and propelled by a fuel pump or released in the form of pressurized gas in a combustion engine. In this specification any fuel tank that can store or receive one or more liquid fuels can be used. Some non-limiting examples of suitable fuel containers include fuel tanks in vehicles such as fuel tanks in automobiles and fuel tanks in aircraft; fuel tanks on the ground or on the ground (for example, at a fuel supply station), deposits on transport vehicles such as tankers, tankers and tankers. In some embodiments, the fuel tank may be connected to other equipment or devices such as power tools, generators and internal combustion engines.

[0100] The fuel tanks can have various sizes and complexity from small plastic tanks of a butane lighter to the multi-chamber cryogenic external tank of the Space Shuttle. The fuel tank can be made of plastics such as polyethylenes (for example, HDPE and UHDPE) or a metal such as steel or aluminum.

[0101] In some embodiments, the fuel composition disclosed herein is stored in the fuel tank of an aircraft and is driven by a fuel pump or released in the form of pressurized gas in an internal combustion engine. to feed an aircraft. The fuel tank of the aircraft may be an integral fuel tank, a rigid removable fuel tank, a flexible fuel tank or a combination thereof.

[0102] In some embodiments, the fuel tank is an integral tank. The integral tank is generally an area inside the structure of the aircraft that has been hermetically sealed to allow fuel storage. An example of this type is the "wet wing" generally used in large aircraft. Most large transport aircraft generally use the integral tank that stores fuel on the wings and / or tail of the aircraft.

[0103] In some embodiments, the fuel tank is a rigid removable tank. The rigid removable tank is usually installed in a compartment designed to accommodate the tank. These deposits are usually made of metal, and can be removed for inspection, replacement or repair. The aircraft does not depend on the deposit for its structural integrity. These deposits are generally found in smaller general aircraft.

[0104] In some embodiments, the fuel tank is a flexible tank. The flexible tank generally consists of reinforced rubberized bags installed in a section of the structure of the aircraft designed to accommodate the weight of the fuel. The flexible tank can be deployed and installed in the compartment through the fuel filler hole or access panel, and can be fixed by means of metal buttons or closures inside the compartment. The flexible tank is generally found in many high-performance light aircraft and in some small turboprops.

[0105] The fuel composition disclosed herein can be used to power any equipment such as an emergency generator or an internal combustion engine, which requires a fuel such as jet engine fuels or missile fuels. . One aspect of the present invention provides a fuel system for providing an internal combustion engine with a fuel in which the fuel system comprises a fuel tank containing the fuel composition disclosed herein. Optionally, the fuel system may further comprise an engine cooling system having a recirculating engine coolant, a fuel pipe that connects the fuel tank with the internal combustion engine, and / or a fuel filter disposed in the fuel pipe Some non-limiting examples of internal combustion engines include alternative engines (for example, gasoline engines and diesel engines), Wankel engines, jet engines, some rocket engines and gas turbine engines.

[0106] In some embodiments, the fuel tank is provided with said cooling system so that heat transfer from the recirculating engine coolant to the fuel composition contained in the fuel tank is allowed. In other embodiments, the fuel system further comprises a second fuel tank containing a second fuel for a jet engine and a second fuel tube connecting the second fuel tank with the engine. Optionally, the first and second fuel tubes may be provided with electromagnetic actuating valves that can be opened or closed independently of each other or simultaneously. In additional embodiments, the second fuel is Jet A.

[0107] In another aspect, an engine configuration is provided comprising an internal combustion engine, a fuel tank containing the fuel composition disclosed herein, a fuel tube connecting the fuel tank with the Internal combustion engine. Optionally, the engine configuration may further comprise a fuel filter and / or an engine cooling system comprising a recirculating engine coolant. In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine is a diesel engine. In other embodiments, the internal combustion engine is a jet engine.

[0108] When the fuel composition disclosed herein is used, it is convenient to remove particles originating from the fuel composition before injecting it into the engine. Therefore, it is convenient to select a fuel filter suitable for use in the fuel system disclosed herein. Water in fuels used in an internal combustion engine, even in small quantities, can be very harmful to the engine. Therefore, it is desirable that the water present in the fuel composition can be removed before injection into the engine. In some embodiments, water and particles can be removed by using a fuel filter using a turbine centrifuge, in which water and particles are separated from the fuel composition to a degree that allows the injection of the composition of filtered fuel in the engine, without risk of engine damage. Of course, other types of fuel filters that can remove water and / or particles can also be used.

[0109] Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine, a fuel tank containing the fuel composition disclosed herein, a fuel tube connecting the fuel tank with the engine of internal combustion. Optionally, the vehicle may further comprise a fuel filter and / or an engine cooling system comprising a recirculating engine coolant. Some non-limiting examples of vehicles include cars, motorcycles, trains, ships and aircraft.

[0110] In another aspect, a vehicle is provided comprising an internal combustion engine, a fuel tank containing the fuel composition disclosed herein and a fuel tube connecting the fuel tank with the engine of internal combustion. Optionally, the vehicle may further comprise a fuel filter and / or an engine cooling system comprising a recirculating engine coolant. Some non-limiting examples of vehicles include cars, motorcycles, trains, ships and aircraft.

Procedures for preparing limonano, farnesano and cimeno

[0111] In addition to the Examples herein, isoprenoid starting materials can be prepared by any method known in the art which includes biological procedures, chemical synthesis and hybrid procedures. When the isoprenoid starting material is made biologically, host cells that are modified can be used to produce the desired product. Limonano can be prepared by hydrogenating a variety of isoprenoid starting materials such as limonene, 1felandrene, and-terpinen, terpinolene. Methods for preparing limonene, 1-phelandrene, yterpinen, terpinolene as well as its hydrogenation in limonano have been described by PCT Publication No. WO-2007 / 140,339, US applications. No. 11 / 986,484 and 11 / 986,485 and international applications No. PCT / US-2007 / 024,270 and PCT / US-2007 / 024,266. The farnesan can be prepared by the hydrogenation of isoprenoid (- and 1-farneseno) starting materials. The processes for preparing (- and 1-farnesenos and their hydrogenation in farnesan are described in US Patent No. 7,399,323. Cimeno can be prepared by hydrogenation of lemongrass and is also described in US applications No. 11 / 986,484 and 11 / 986,485, and international applications No. PCT / US2007 / 024,270 and PCT / US-2007 / 024,266.

Commercial procedures

[0112] In the present specification a commercial procedure is also described which comprises:

(a) obtaining a biofuel comprising limonene produced from an isoprenoid starting material by carrying out a fermentation reaction of a sugar with a recombinant host cell, in which the recombinant host cell produces the isoprenoid starting material; and (b) marketing and / or sale of said biofuel.

[0113] A procedure for marketing or distribution of the biofuel disclosed in this specification for sellers, suppliers and / or users of a fuel is also disclosed, a procedure comprising advertising and / or the offer for sale of the biofuel disclosed in The present specification. In additional embodiments, the biofuel disclosed herein may have improved physical or marketing characteristics with respect to natural fuel or to a biofuel alternative containing ethanol.

[0114] A procedure to establish a partnership or collaboration with or a license concession to an oil refining company established to mix the biofuel disclosed in this specification in petroleum-based fuels such as a gasoline, fuel for jet engines, kerosene, diesel fuel or a combination thereof, and a procedure to establish a partnership or partnership with or a license grant to an oil refining company established to process (for example, hydrogenated, hydrocrack, crack, additional purification) the biofuels disclosed in the present specification, thereby modifying them in such a way that they are conferred beneficial properties for the biofuels. The established petroleum refining company may use the biofuel disclosed herein as a raw material for further chemical modification, the final product of which could be used as a fuel or a mixing component of a fuel composition.

[0115] A procedure for establishing a partnership or collaboration with or licensing a producer of synthetic fuels established to mix the biofuel disclosed in this specification in synthetic fuels as a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process is also disclosed. , turbodiesel, CTL synthetic fuel for jet engines or a combination thereof, as well as a procedure to establish a partnership or partnership with or a license grant to a synthetic fuel producer established to process (for example, hydrogenated, hydrocrack, crack, additional purification) the biofuels disclosed in the present specification, thereby modifying them in such a way that they are conferred beneficial properties for the biofuels. The established synthetic fuel producer may use the biofuel disclosed herein as a raw material for further chemical modification, the final product of which could be used as a fuel or a mixing component of a fuel composition.

[0116] A procedure for establishing a partnership or collaboration with or licensing a sugar producer from a renewable resource (for example, corn, sugarcane, bagasse or lignocellulosic material) to use such sources is also described. of renewable sugars for the production of biofuels disclosed in this specification. For example, corn and sugarcane, the traditional sources of sugar, can be used. For example, economical lignocellulosic material (agricultural wastes, corn residues or biomass crops such as rod and cutter grass) can be used as a source of sugar. The sugar obtained from said economic sources can be supplied in the production of the biofuel disclosed herein, in accordance with the methods of the present invention.

[0117] A procedure for establishing a partnership or collaboration with or licensing a chemical producer that produces and / or uses sugar from a renewable resource (for example, corn, sugar cane, bagasse or lignocellulosic material) is also described. to use sugar obtained from a renewable source for the production of the biofuel disclosed herein.

[0118] The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the present invention in any way.

[0119] The practice of the present invention may employ, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques of the biosynthesis industry and the like, which are within the art. Since these techniques are not fully described in the present specification, ample reference to them can be found in the scientific literature.

[0120] In the following examples, efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with regard to the numbers used (for example, quantities, temperature, and so on), but they may contemplate variations and deviations, and in the event that there is Some typographical error in the numbers referred to in the present specification, the person skilled in the art to which this invention is directed can deduct the correct amount in view of the rest of the description in the present specification. Unless otherwise indicated, the temperature is referred to in degrees Celsius, and the pressure is or is close to atmospheric pressure at sea level. All reagents, unless otherwise indicated, were obtained commercially. The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the present invention in any way.

Example 1

[0121] This example describes the hydrogenation of (-farnesene to farnesan. (-Farnesene (204 g, 1 mol, 255 ml) was added to a 500 ml Parr high pressure vessel containing 10% Pd / C (5 g, 5% by weight of (-farnesene) The reaction vessel was sealed and evacuated in vacuo for 5 minutes and after that time the reaction mixture was pressurized with H2 at 241 kPa at 25 ° C. The reaction mixture was stirred until no drops in the H2 pressure were observed (approximately 16 hours) The excess H2 gas was removed in vacuo followed by ventilation under N2 atmosphere Thin layer chromatography ("TLC", Rf = 0.95, hexane, p-anisaldehyde or iodine staining) indicated the complete reagent disappearance The content of the reaction was filtered under a silica gel bed (Aldrich 60 Å) followed by washing the silica gel with hexane (2 L) The filtrate was concentrated on a rotary evaporator, then the isolated product was dried further and in high vacuum to remove any residual hexane to produce farnesan as a colorless liquid (195 g, 244 ml, 95%). 1H-NMR (CDCl3, 500MHz): 8 1.56-1.11 (m, 17H), 0.88-0.79 (overlapping t and d, 15H).

Example 2

[0122] This example describes the hydrogenation of 1-farneseno in farnesano.

[0123] In a 7.56 l reactor, 75 g of 10% by weight (dry) Pd / C catalyst was added to 4 kg (4.65 l = 1.23 gal) of liquid farnesene. This produced an initial catalyst charge of 16.13 g / l. The vessel was sealed, purged with nitrogen gas, and then evacuated in vacuo. Stirring was started and compressed hydrogen gas was added continuously at 790 kPa (100 psig). The reactor was heated to 80 ° C. The total reaction time was approximately 48 hours. Using GC-FID, the final concentration of farnesan was measured, which was 99.76%. The reactor was cooled, purged and opened. The reaction mixture was then filtered through a 0.5 micrometer filter cartridge in two 3.78 liter glass jars.

[0124] If desired, the product can be further purified by distillation. An example distillation protocol of 1 l is indicated below. Approximately 1 l of farnesan was loaded into a 2 l round-bottom flask with a water-cooled distillation head along with a Vigreaux column attached to the joint. The liquid was stirred and evacuated to 14 Torr. At this point, the liquid was heated to 155 ° C and the flask was wrapped in glass wool together with aluminum foil. During heating, the liquid turned from clear to light yellow. Steam began to form on the head at 120 ° C. Approximately 950 ml of the transparent farnesan was collected before the distillation stopped.

Example 3

[0125] This example describes the hydrogenation of limonene in limonene mainly.

[0126] Limonene and 10% Pd / C catalyst [palladium, 10% by weight in activated carbon, Aldrich # 205699] are added in a 6 g / l load to a reaction vessel. The vessel is sealed and purged with nitrogen gas, then evacuated under vacuum. To start the reaction, the vessel is stirred while adding compressed hydrogen gas at 653 kPa (80 psig). The slightly exothermic reaction continues at room temperature. The final conversion is approximately 100%, marked by the end of hydrogen consumption and verified by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. The product-catalyst mixture is separated by gravity filtration through 60 Å silica gel. The concentration of the final product is expected to be mainly limonane with less than 5% p-cimeno.

Example 4

[0127] This example describes the hydrogenation of limonene mainly in limonene with some pcimeno.

[0128] In the reaction vessel, limonene and 10% Pd / C catalyst [palladium, 10% by weight on activated carbon, Aldrich # 205699] are added in 6 g / l load. The vessel is sealed, purged with nitrogen gas, then evacuated under vacuum. The vessel is stirred while the temperature is increased to 105 ° C. An initial charge of hydrogen gas is added at 653 kPa (80 psig) and adds approximately 0.05 mol of hydrogen per mol of limonene. Due to the consumption of hydrogen, the pressure will drop to zero. After 12 hours of reaction time, the temperature is reduced to 75 ° C and compressed hydrogen is added continuously at 653 kPa (80 psig). The final conversion is approximately 100%, marked by the end of hydrogen consumption and verified by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. The product-catalyst mixture is separated by gravity filtration through a 60 Å silica gel. The concentration of the final product is expected to be between about 80% and about 90% of lemongrass and between about 10% and about 20% of pcimeno.

Example 5

[0129] This example describes the hydrogenation of limonene in limonene and p-cimeno.

[0130] In the reaction vessel, limonene and 10% Pd / C catalyst [palladium, 10% by weight on activated carbon, Aldrich # 205699] are added in 6 g / l load. The vessel is sealed, purged with nitrogen gas, then evacuated under vacuum. The vessel is stirred while the temperature is increased to 120 ° C. An initial charge of hydrogen gas is added at 653 kPa (80 psig) and adds approximately 0.05 mol hydrogen per mol limonene. Due to the consumption of hydrogen, the pressure will drop to zero. The initial hydrogen charge allows the formation of 4-isopropyl-1-methylcyclohex-1-ene that is then easily converted to p-cimeno. After 12 hours of reaction time, the temperature is reduced to 75 ° C and compressed hydrogen is added continuously at 653 kPa (80 psig). The final conversion is approximately 100%, marked by the end of hydrogen consumption and verified by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. The product-catalyst mixture is separated by gravity filtration through a 60 Å silica gel. The final concentration of the product is expected to be between approximately 70% and 80% of lemongrass and between approximately 20% and approximately 30%

5 of p-cimeno.

Example 6

[0131] Three fuel compositions referred to as AMD-200, AMJ-300 and

10 AMJ-310 in several ASTM tests for D 1655 for Jet A. AMD-200 comprises 99.76% farnesano. AMJ300 comprises 97.1% of lemongrass and 1.6% of p-cimeno. AMJ-300 includes 1.3% of unidentified compounds, of which 0.9% is believed to be 2,6-dimethyloctane. AMJ-310 comprises 81.0% of lemongrass and 17.5% of p-cimeno is mixed with 0%, 50% and 80% of Jet A. AMJ-310 includes 1.5% of compounds Unidentified, of which 0.9% is believed to be 2,6-dimethyloctane. The components of AMD-200, AMJ-300 and

15 AMJ-310 were identified by gas chromatography / flame ionization detector (GC / FID).

[0132] As shown in Table 1, the distillation properties of AMJ-300 and AMJ-310 are similar because lemongrass and cymene have similar boiling temperatures.

20 Table 1

Property

 Units Spec. Jet A ASMT test procedure Jet A (Base Fuel) AMJ300 AMJ310 AMD200

Distillation temperature

Initial boiling point, temperature

° C D86 153 154 168 242

10% recovered, temperature

° C max. 205 D86 176 168 168 243

50% recovered, temperature

° C max. report D86 209 168 168 244

90% recovered, temperature

° C max. report D86 252 168 169 244

Final boiling point, temperature

° C max. 300 D86 284 193 201 271

Distillation Recovery

% vol. D86 97.6 98.5 98.9 98.7

Distillation residue

% vol. max. 1.5 D86 1.4 1.0 0.7 1.3

Loss of distillation

% vol. max. 1.5 D86 1.0 0.5 0.4 0.0

Flash point

° C min. 38 D56 43 43 43 109

Density at 15 ° C

kg / m3  interv. 775-840 D4052 811.0 800.9 809.6 773.7

Freezing point

° C max. -40 D2386 -47 <-70 <-70 <-71

Net heat of combustion

MJ / kg min. 42.8 D4809 43.4192  42.28 44.99 44.2

Example 7

[0133] Figures 1 and 2 respectively show distillation curves for various mixtures of AMJ-300 and AMJ-310 with different amounts of Jet A. A fuel composition (referred to as AMJ-300) comprising 97.1% of lemongrass and 1.6% p-cimeno. AMJ-300 includes 1.3% of unidentified compounds, of which 0.9% is believed to be 2,6-dimethyloctane. A fuel composition (referred to as AMJ-310) comprising 81.0% of lemongrass and 17.5% of p-cimeno was mixed with 0%, 50% and 80% of Jet A. AMJ310 includes 1.5% of unidentified compounds, of which 0.9% is believed to be 2,6-dimethyloctane. The components of AMJ-300 and AMJ-310 were identified by gas chromatography / flame ionization detector (GC / FID).

5 [0134] With AMJ-300 and AMJ-310, distillation curves deviate from that of Jet A. It is believed that the two fuels behave essentially as if they were single-component fuels (with respect to the boiling point given similarities between lemon and cimeno).

[0135] To better emulate the distillation curve for Jet A (which can comprise many hundreds of

10 compounds), a compound with a higher boiling point than lemongrass and cymene was added. Two new fuel compositions, Fuel A and Fuel B were mixed.

[0136] Fuel B (also referred to as AMJ-700) comprises 50% of lemongrass, 10% of cimeno and 40% of farnesano. Fuel A is 50% of AMJ-700 and 50% of Jet A, thus comprising the

15 25% Lemon, 5% Cimeno, 20% Farnese and 50% Jet A. Table 2 below shows the properties of D1655 for Jet A, Fuel A and Fuel B.

[0137] Figure 3 shows the distillation curves for Fuels A and B. These fuels mixed with Jet A can emulate the distillation curve of Jet A. 20 Table 2

PROPERTY / COMPOSITION

Units Spec. Jet A ASTM test procedure Jet A (Base Fuel) Fuel A Fuel B

Appearance

C and B * D4176-2 C and B * C and B * C and B *

Acidity

 mg KOH / g total max.  0.10 D3242 0 005 0.003 0.003

Aromatic

 % vol. max. 25 D1319 16.9 16.5 9.1

Sulfur

% total mass max.  0.30 D4294 0.0685 0.0351 0.0006

Sulfur, mercaptan

% mass max. 0.003 D3227 0.0019 0.0005 <0.0001

VOLATILITY

Physical distillation - Distillation temperature

Initial boiling point, temperature

° C D86 153 163 171

10% recovered, temperature

° C max. 205 D86 176 177 177

50% recovered, temperature

° C max. report D86 209 201 191

90% recovered, temperature

° C max. report D86 252 247 244

Final boiling point, temperature

° C max. 300 D86 284 272 256

Distillation Recovery

% vol. D86 97.6 98.1 99

Distillation residue

% vol. max. 1.5 D86 1.4 1.4 0.6

Loss of distillation

% vol. max. 1.5 D86 1.0 0.5 0.4

Flash point

° C min. 38 D56 43 48 fifty

Density at 15 ° C

kg / m3  interv. 775 - 840 D4052 811.0 802.7 795.6

FLUENCY

Freezing point

° C max. -40 D2386  -47 -53.5 <-71

* Note: C and B means clear and bright.

Comparative Example A

5 [0138] Comparative Example A was Jet A-1 provided by the Air Force Research Laboratory (Dayton, OH).

Example 8

10 [0139] Example 8 was AMJ-310. AMJ-310 comprising 81.0% of lemongrass and 17.5% p-cimeno was mixed with 0%, 50% and 80% of Jet A. AMJ-310 includes 1.5% of compounds Unidentified, of which 0.9% is believed to be 2,6-dimethyloctane.

Example 9

[0140] Example 9 was a fuel composition prepared by mixing 50% of AMJ-310 and 50% of JET A-1.

Example 10

[0141] Example 10 was a fuel composition prepared by mixing 50% AMJ-700 and 50% JET A-1. AMJ-700 (Fuel B) comprises 50% of lemongrass, 10% of cimeno and 40% of farnesano. Fuel A is 50% of AMJ-700 and 50% of Jet A thus comprising 25% of lemongrass, 5% of cimeno, 20% of farnesano and 50% of Jet A.

Example 11

[0142] Example 11 was a fuel composition prepared by mixing 10% AMJ-310 and 90% JET A-1.

[0143] Examples 8 to 11 were tested in a key combustor equipment test, that is, an ignition test. The ignition takes place when the speed of an engine produces sufficient combustion air to produce the correct proportion of air with the fuel supplied. Due to the fact that the fuel flow is highly dependent on the ambient conditions including the ambient temperature and the

At ambient atmospheric pressure, the amount of fuel flow to the gas turbine engine is actively controlled according to the speed of the gas turbine engine in order to achieve the correct fuel-air ratio for ignition. The fuel and air temperature of the combustor for all tests (T3) was -34 ° C (-30 ° F). The ignition test was performed for several pressure drops in the injector, that is, dP / P. While the nominal dP / P condition for the combustor test is between 4.5 and 4.7%, the condition

40 dP / P for the ignition test was started in a low condition of 2%. Subsequently, the dP / P condition was increased to medium (4%) and high (6%) conditions. Since dP / P is a measure of air flow, a higher dP / P condition equals greater air flow. The amount of fuel flow for Jet A-1 required to execute the ignition was established as a reference line, and the changes in the fuel flow of Examples 8 to 11 required to execute the ignition were measured.

[0144] Figure 4 shows the fuel flow required to execute the ignition at different rates of dP / P by examples 8 to 11 with respect to the fuel flow required to execute the ignition for Jet A-1. Since the lower fuel flow requirement of a certain fuel component can be a positive result, as shown in Figure 4, Examples 8, 9 and 11 work

50 better than Jet A-1 in medium and high dP / P conditions, but slightly worse than Jet A-1 in low dP / P condition. Example 10 works better than Jet A-1 in all dP / P conditions.

[0145] Four fuel compositions referred to as Examples 8 to 11 were tested in a combustor equipment test, that is, the poor mixture quench test. The ratio of fuel / air in the poor mix shutdown (AMP) is a design requirement for gas turbine injectors that must be met during the development procedure. Normally, the fuel / air ratio in AMP of a combustor should be maintained to prevent shutdown during rapid engine deceleration at altitude, as well as to maintain combustion during altitude restart. The amount of fuel flow

for Jet A-1 required for quenching due to poor mixing, it was established as a reference line, and changes in the fuel flow of Examples 8 to 11 required for quenching due to poor mixing were measured.

[0146] Figure 5 shows the poor mixing shutdown for some embodiments of the fuel compositions disclosed herein with respect to those of Jet A-1 according to different rates of pressure increase. As shown in Figure 5, Examples 8 to 11 work better than Jet A-1 in medium and high dP / P conditions, but slightly worse than Jet A-1 in low dP / P condition. Example 10 comprising 50% of lemongrass and 40% of farnesano works better than Examples 8, 9 and 11 in condition of average dP / P.

[0147] It should be noted that the application of the fuel compositions for jet engines disclosed herein is not limited to jet engines; they can be used in any equipment that requires a jet engine fuel. Although there are specifications for most jet engine fuels, not all jet engine fuel compositions disclosed herein should meet all the requirements of the specifications. It is noted that the methods for preparing and using the jet engine fuel compositions disclosed herein are described with reference to a series of steps. These steps can be carried out in any sequence. One or more stages may be omitted or combined with each other, although they still achieve substantially the same results.

[0148] Although the above invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings of this invention that certain changes and modifications may be made to it without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (13)

1. A fuel composition comprising:

(to)

 Limonene in an amount that is at least 5% by volume, based on the total volume of the fuel composition; Y

(b)

 farnesano in an amount that is at least 5% by volume, based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

2.

The fuel composition according to claim 1, wherein the density of the fuel composition at 15 ° C is 775 kg / m3 to 840 kg / m3.

3.

The fuel composition according to claim 1, wherein the fuel composition further comprises p-cimeno, a petroleum-based fuel or a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process, wherein the p-cimeno is in an amount which is at least 0.5% by volume, based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

Four.

The fuel composition according to claim 1, comprising:

(to)

 Lemon in an amount that is 15% to 60% by volume;

(b)

 farnesano in an amount that is 5% to 45% by volume;

(C)

 p-cimeno in an amount that is 0.5% to 25% by volume; Y

(d)

a petroleum-based fuel or a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process in an amount that is at least 20% by volume,

in which all quantities are based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

5.

The fuel composition according to claim 4, wherein the fuel composition has a density of 750 kg / m3 at 840 kg / m3 at 15 ° C, and a difference between the temperatures T90 and T10 of at least 10 ° C.

6.

The fuel composition according to claim 1, comprising:

(to)

 Lemon in an amount that is 15% to 30% by volume;

(b)

 farnesano in an amount that is 10% to 30% by volume;

(C)

 p-cimeno in an amount that is 0.5% to 20% by volume;

(d)

a petroleum-based fuel or a fuel based on the Fischer-Tropsch process in an amount that is at least 40% by volume; Y

(and)

 a fuel additive, in which all quantities are based on the total volume of the fuel composition.

7.

The fuel composition according to claim 6, wherein the fuel composition has a density of 750 kg / m3 at 840 kg / m3 at 15 ° C, and a difference between temperatures T90 and T10 of at least 10 ° C.

8.

The fuel composition according to claim 1 or 4, wherein the fuel composition further comprises a fuel additive.

9.

The fuel composition according to claim 6 or 8, wherein the fuel additive is selected from the group consisting of an oxygenated compound, an antioxidant, a thermal stability enhancer, a stabilizer, a cold flow enhancer, a combustion enhancer, a defoamer, an anti-haze additive, a corrosion inhibitor, a lubricity enhancer, a freeze inhibitor, an injector cleaning additive, a smoke suppressor, a drag reduction additive, a deactivator metal, a dispersant, a detergent, a demulsifier, a dye, a marker, a static dissipator, a biocide and

combinations thereof.

10.

The fuel composition according to claim 1, 4 or 6, wherein the lemon is

or a combination thereof. 11. The fuel composition according to claim 1, 4 or 6, wherein the farnesano is 15 or a combination thereof. 12. The fuel composition according to claim 1, 4 or 6, wherein the fuel composition meets ASTM D 1655 specification for Jet A, Jet A-1 or Jet B. A vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine, a fuel tank connected to the internal combustion engine, and a fuel composition in the fuel tank, wherein the fuel composition is the fuel composition according to any of claims 1 to 12 wherein the fuel composition is used to feed the internal combustion engine. A method of feeding an engine comprising the combustion stage of the fuel composition according to any one of claims 1 to 12 in the engine. 15. The vehicle according to claim 13, wherein the internal combustion engine is an engine reaction. 30