microFTL technology
microFTL technology is an integrated Fischer-Tropsch synthesis package for distributed-scale renewable fuel production.
It combines Fischer-Tropsch technology licensing, compact AlphaCore™ reactors, Oxford-engineered SQRCAT™ catalyst, module / skid design, and operating know-how developed through more than two decades of reactor and catalyst deployment.
microFTL™ provides the hydrocarbon synthesis core used to convert synthesis gas into liquid hydrocarbons suitable for sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel, naphtha, and other synthetic fuel products.
Quick answers on this page
- microFTL combines reactor technology, catalyst, and operating know-how in a single, integrated package
- It is designed for distributed-scale Fischer-Tropsch deployment
- microFTL converts synthesis gas into synthetic liquid hydrocarbons
- It fits within larger fuel production systems that include syngas generation and upgrading
- Velocys deployment history provides operating experience across multiple commercial pathways
What is microFTL technology?
microFTL is an integrated synthesis system built around microchannel reactor technology and superactive catalyst systems.
The package includes:
- Fischer-Tropsch technology license
- AlphaCore microchannel reactor systems—which control heat and reaction conditions
- SQRCAT catalyst—engineered for microchannel reactors
- Module and skid design
- process know-how
- operating guidance for synthesis deployment
This creates an integrated synthesis platform for converting syngas into liquid fuels.
Reactor design, catalyst behavior, and process conditions are engineered into Velocys packages as a single, integrated FT synthesis system.
What does microFTL include?
microFTL combines core synthesis hardware and technical know-how required for Fischer-Tropsch fuel production.
The package includes:
FT reactor system
AlphaCore microchannel reactors designed for high heat-transfer control across a range of capacities.
Cobalt-based catalyst
Oxford-engineered SQRCAT catalyst optimized for microchannel reactor performance.
Process integration know-how
Operating knowledge developed through commercial deployment and testing.
Technology licensing
Use of Velocys’ Fischer-Tropsch intellectual property.
How does microFTL operate as a system?
microFTL integrates reactor design, catalyst performance, and process conditions into a single synthesis system.
Within the FT island:
- AlphaCore reactors control heat and reaction conditions
- SQRCAT catalyst enables hydrocarbon formation and lifecycle control
- Integrated process and skid / module design aligns temperature, flow, and performance targets
These elements are not independent. They operate together to deliver stable, repeatable hydrocarbon production.
This system-level design is what enables microFTL to scale through modular trains while maintaining consistent performance.
Where does microFTL fit in a fuel production plant?
microFTL provides the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis section within a larger fuel production pathway.
microFTL systems are typically configured as multi-train FT islands, enabling scalable deployment and continuous operation.
A full fuel production system also includes:
- feedstock conversion
- gasification or reforming
- syngas cleaning
- hydrocarbon upgrading
microFTL sits at the point where cleaned synthesis gas becomes liquid hydrocarbons.
This enables project developers to integrate the synthesis core within broader plant architecture.
How does microFTL work?
microFTL converts synthesis gas into liquid hydrocarbons through compact catalytic reactor systems.
The synthesis sequence includes:
Syngas feed preparation
Cleaned syngas enters the reactor system.
Fischer-Tropsch synthesis
Carbon monoxide and hydrogen react over catalyst at specific temperatures and pressures.
Product separation
Hydrocarbon liquids are separated into process fractions.
Tail gas handling
Gas recycle and tail gas management support process efficiency.
The result is a reliable stream of synthetic hydrocarbons ready for downstream upgrading.
Is microFTL designed for distributed-scale deployment?
microFTL was developed to make Fischer-Tropsch deployment practical at scales smaller than mega-centralized FT systems, and is now available for larger capacities.
Advantages include:
- Small to substantial reactor footprint
- high heat-transfer performance
- modular deployment potential
- suitability down to moderate syngas volumes
This enables FT synthesis deployment where feedstocks are geographically distributed, as well as centralized.
Why does Velocys operating experience matter?
microFTL is supported by operating knowledge developed across commercial and demonstration deployments.
That experience includes:
- reactor operating history
- catalyst performance learning
- startup and commissioning lessons
- product yield optimization
Velocys’ earlier GTL deployment at Envia demonstrated modular Fischer-Tropsch operation under commercial conditions, providing operating experience that informs later SAF pathways.
What fuels and finished hydrocarbon products can microFTL support?
microFTL produces synthetic hydrocarbons that can be upgraded into multiple fuels and products.
Most commonly requested fuel outputs include:
- sustainable aviation fuel
- renewable diesel
- naphtha
- specialty synthetic hydrocarbons
Other hydrocarbon products:
- FT wax for multiple uses like candles, coatings, and polishes
- essential ingredients for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
- base oils for synthetic lubricants
Final product selection and mix is determined by downstream upgrading design.
How does microFTL connect to project development?
microFTL is typically integrated after feedstock conversion decisions are already established.
It supports projects using:
- biogas
- biomass
- municipal solid waste
- gas feedstocks
- power-derived syngas systems
See:
Frequently asked questions
Is microFTL a complete fuel plant?
No. microFTL provides the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis unit inside a larger fuel production system.
Does microFTL include catalyst?
Yes. The technology package includes catalyst engineered for reactor compatibility.
Can microFTL produce SAF?
Yes. Synthetic hydrocarbons produced through microFTL can be upgraded into SAF.
Is microFTL designed only for SAF?
No. It supports multiple synthetic fuel outputs depending on project design.
What feedstocks have been used with mcroFTL?
microFTL technology can be used to synthesize FT fluids from a wide variety of feedstocks. Velocys has produced synthetic hydrocarbons from biomass (wood chips), natural gas, biogas (landfill gas), and coal. Current projects in the engineering phase are designed to use syngas from dairy-sourced biogas, municipal solid waste, and biomass (wood chips and agricultural residues).
Where has microFTL technology been deployed?
Velocys has installed and operated microFTL systems in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. The technology has been deployed in green-field projects, alongside existing FT systems, adjacent to refineries / power stations / gasification operations, and in research facilities.