TAMU Qatar - Fuel Characterization Laboratory

Overview of Services

Texas A&M University at Qatar’s Fuel Characterization Laboratory (FCL) is built to support both research and teaching activities in the area of formulation and characterization of fuels and value-added chemicals. It is a world class research laboratory that support the development of the fuel technology capabilities of Qatar for Gas-to-Liquid (GTL) processes. It supports the research and testing needs of multiple, industry-oriented and scientific disciplines such as materials, electronics, machining, manufacturing, chemistry, fuel characterization, research computing, water and environmental research, wettability research, engine testing and research, sustainability energy and clean air research, and petrophysics.

The FCL is currently used for the development of future generations of synthetic fuels obtained from natural gas using GTL technology, and the comparison of these fuels with conventional fuels obtained from petroleum resources. The FCL is equipped with advanced analytical equipment to measure both physical and chemical properties of fuels and value-added chemicals. The lab is equipped with over 30 types of analytical equipment including advanced Gas Chromatographs (GCs) that are capable of identifying the chemical composition of all species existing in fuels. Furthermore, the FCL is equipped with the necessary facilities to formulate new fuel blends via the use of additives.

The work conducted in this lab adheres to a sophisticated data quality control system and safety regulations developed with the support of our industry partners. This system ensures that the equipment, testing procedures and data recording in the FCL comply with international standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The FCL is ISO 9001:2015 Certified. In addition, the FCL hosts a number of projects representing a unique collaboration between world leading companies in fuels and engine manufacturing, and academic institutions around the globe. Collaborators are Shell, GE (Oil& Gas), OryxGTL, Qatar Airways and others. Over 25 graduate and undergraduate researchers were trained in the facility since 2009.

Leadership information

DR. NIMIR ELBASHIR | Director, TEES Gas & Fuels Research Center
Email: nimir.elbashir@qatar.tamu.edu

Location and hours of operation

Links and Resources

1. TAMU Qatar direct link
2. Energy and Fuel Processing, Catalysis at TAMU Q
3. TAMU Q Chemical & Engineering Faculty and Staff

Contacts