Introducing GTL: A Newly Invented Class of Solvents

Shell Chemicals has recently commercialized a new process that turns natural gas into a synthetic paraffinic fluid. They call this process gas to liquid (GTL) technology. With this technological advance, Shell has introduced a new class of solvents to world chemical markets. Shell’s new GTL line offers several advantages over petroleum-derived solvents:

  • Zero odor
  • Water-white color
  • Clean burning
  • Readily biodegradable
  • Low toxicity

GTL fluids have an extremely low aromatic content and non-detectable quantities of sulfur, benzene, heavy metals, and other impurities. As this is brand new technology, there’s not yet a precedent for where GTLs are best suited. We recommend trying them where odor, color, or environmental concerns are important to you. Currently, FBC Chemical has two GTL products available for sampling – G75 and G85.

G75

G85
Flash point (°C)

79

86
Boiling range (°C)

188 – 343

198 – 343
Kari-butanol value

24

24
Vapor pressure @ 20° C (mm Hg)

0.30

0.15
Viscosity @ 20° C (cSt)

4.0

4.2

Shell built a $20 billion state of the art refinery in Qatar to keep up with the anticipated demand. You can learn about that project in this 4 minute video:

FBC is proud to have been chosen as a selected distributor for these new products. Contact your FBC sales representative today for further specifications or to request a sample.