Comparison of methanol to gasoline (MTG) and methanol to kerosene (MTK) for the decarbonization of the road transport and aviation sectors

For the climate goals to be met, it is critical to rapidly increase the share of renewable fuels in the non-electrified road transport sector as well as in the aviation sector. Among the various pathways for renewable fuel production, Methanol-to-Gasoline (MTG) and Methanol-to-Kerosene (MTK) appear particularly promising, especially when considering the continuous decrease of the electrolytic hydrogen production cost and the growing market of e-methanol plants. In this work, a comparative analysis is presented for these 2 pathways, focusing on their process layouts, types of reactors and catalysts, fuel product yields, energy efficiencies, and economics. The MTG pathway is based on a highly selective conversion of methanol into gasoline range hydrocarbons using dimethyl ether as the intermediate, whereas MTK uses a more elaborate cascade of catalytic steps, including methanol-to-olefins, oligomerization, and hydro-processing to produce a high-quality sustainable aviation fuel. The design aspects related to the process layouts and performance optimization are thoroughly examined in order to gain a deeper understanding of the differences between MTG and MTK for a possible facility repurposing as well as to assess any chance for further technology advancements. In considering both these pathways from the perspective of sustainability and energy transition, this review adds to the current research that rarely addresses the connection between these 2 synthetic fuel production technologies. • A comparison of Methanol-to-Gasoline and Methanol-to-Kerosene routes is reported. • Process designs, reactor configurations, and challenges are critically reviewed. • Product mass yields, chemical energy efficiency, and carbon efficiency are obtained. • Techno-economic viability of MTG and MTK pathways are evaluated. • MTK is highlighted as a promising route for sustainable aviation fuel production.