ABSTRACT
Gas to liquids (GTL) is recognized as a technology of the future as it provides the opportunity to convert “stranded” or lower valued natural gas and/or other feeds into high-quality fuels, chemicals, and lube products. GTL technology represents a three-step process that has been researched, in one form or another, for nearly one century. Since GTL chemically modified mineral oils are highly iso-paraffinic, they exhibit an extremely high viscosity index that should provide excellent viscometrics over a wide temperature range. The capability of GTL-produced chemically modified mineral oils as a direct alternative to polyalphaolefins has also been demonstrated with higher viscosity fluids. The oxidative performance of GTL-based chemically modified mineral oils has been demonstrated in a number of areas and tests, including both engine and bench industrial procedures. Shell has been actively promoting the use of GTL produced base stocks in its premium engine oil products since the commercialization of the Peal refinery in 2011.
