TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure pertains to technical field of hydrocarbon fuel composition. In particular, the present disclosure pertains to a hydrocarbon fuel composition comprising an additive and a base gas that find utility as a torch gas in metal cutting and welding. The present disclosure also pertains to a method of preparation of the additive and the hydrocarbon fuel composition.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art. [0003] Oxy-fuel based cutting is a widely applied process for the fabrication of metal sheets for the various industries. Hence, choice of fuel in combination with oxygen is the fundamental to the quality, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of fuel composition while executing fabrication process. There are many fuel gases available and adopted by the industries for cutting, brazing & welding application, such as LPG (propane & butane mixture), natural gas (methane), and acetylene and the likes.
[0004] Generally, oxyfuel based cutting occurs due to a chemical reaction between the oxygen and the melted base metal (steel) at elevated temperature. Oxyfuel is used to preheat the metal to its 'ignition' temperature (for steel, it is 700-900°C) well below its melting point. A jet of pure oxygen is fed into the preheated area to form ferrous oxide/slag through a vigorous exothermic chemical reaction between the oxygen and the melted metal. The oxygen jet helps to blow away slag to pierce through material and continuation of this process leads to cut through the material. The cutting mechanism mentioned hereinabove indicates that the oxygen holds a prime role in oxy-fuel cutting. Therefore, it can be envisaged that any additional supply of reactive oxygen to the cutting zone (area where reaction happens between melted metal and oxygen) would certainly facilitate the rise in reaction rate, and thereby assist in faster cutting.

[0005] Among all oxy-fuel gases, oxy-acetylene is most frequently used gas by the fabricators, owing to its higher primary flame temperature that heats up the surface of the work piece faster than any other fuel gas, reducing the preheat time considerably. However, acetylene suffers from major drawbacks such as being hazardous in nature, being highly explosive, being difficult to store safely, and therefore, its use has been highly discouraged worldwide. The explosive limits of acetylene is 3% to 80% by volume in air which is very wide range in a flammable mixture, triggering flashback in the torch when lit up, and leads to decomposition of acetylene making it highly unstable and prone to cause an explosion. Attempts have been made to develop LPG based torch gas using acetylene with low flame temperature (being explosive at high temperature and pressure) that are user friendly and are with minimum hazards, however, these low flame temperature torch gas proved to be inferior for cutting and welding applications. Moreover, acetylene being explosive at high pressures, limits its use under deep water at depths not greater than 20 feet under water.
[0006] There is, therefore, an unmet need in the art for improved composition, and method of preparation thereof, that reduces fuel consumption, improve shelf-life, and improve combustion property of the base gas that may find utility as torch gas for cutting and welding applications.
[0007] The present invention satisfies the existing needs, as well as others, and generally overcomes the deficiencies found in the prior art. [0008] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0009] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a new and improved hydrocarbon fuel composition.

[0010] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a hydrocarbon
fuel composition with superior flame characteristics.
[0011] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a hydrocarbon
fuel composition with improved metal cutting, and welding/brazing applications.
[0012] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a hydrocarbon
fuel composition comprising mixture of additives that may be converted to
nanomaterial at oxy-fuel flame environment, and liberates oxygen at molten metal
surface, offering superior surface finish at minimum oxygen consumption.
[0013] Still another object of the present invention is to provide a
hydrocarbon fuel composition used in a fortified torch gas.
[0014] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a fortified torch
gas with faster metal piercing.
[0015] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a fortified torch
gas for cutting and/or welding applications with minimum slag formation.
[0016] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a fortified torch
gas that is more homogenize with base gas and has a shelf-life of at least 6
months.
[0017] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a fortified torch
gas that enables ferrous metal to be cut safely with no spluttering and back flash.
[0018] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a fortified torch
gas that may be used for cutting or welding under water at considerable depths.
[0019] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a method of
preparation of additives and hydrocarbon fuel composition.
SUMMARY
[0020] The present disclosure, in order to achieve the above mentioned objects, provides a hydrocarbon fuel composition. In particular, the present disclosure pertains to a hydrocarbon fuel composition comprising an additive and a base gas that may be used as a torch gas in wide variety of applications such as metal cutting and welding. The present disclosure also pertains to a method of preparation of the additive and the hydrocarbon fuel composition.

[0021] An aspect of the present disclosure provides an additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition, said additive comprising: a cerium-fatty acid complex and a low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent in a volume ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1:10, said low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent having a boiling point ranging from 50°C - 100°C. In an embodiment, the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent is selected from naphtha, pentane, hexane, iso-hexane, heptane, iso-heptane and iso-octane. In an embodiment, the cerium-fatty acid complex comprises: a source of cerous ion; a source of fatty acid; and optionally, a hydrocarbon solvent. In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion is a cerous salt. In an embodiment, the cerium-fatty acid complex has a molar weight ratio of the cerous salt and the fatty acid ranging from 1:2 to 1:9. In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion comprises any or a combination of cerium nitrate and cerium (III) acetate hydrate. In an embodiment, the source of fatty acid comprises a fatty acid or a mixture of fatty acids having carbon atoms ranging from C8 to C22.
[0022] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a hydrocarbon fuel composition, said composition comprising: an additive in an amount ranging from 0.01%) to 2%> by weight of the composition; and a base gas in an amount ranging from 98%o to 99.99%) by weight of the composition, said additive comprising a cerium-fatty acid complex and a low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent, said low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent having boiling point ranging from 50°C - 100°C. In an embodiment, the additive comprises the cerium-fatty acid complex and the hydrocarbon solvent in a volume ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1:10. In an embodiment, the base gas is a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). In an embodiment, the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent is selected from naphtha, pentane, hexane, iso-hexane, heptane, iso-heptane and iso-octane. In an embodiment, the cerium-fatty acid complex comprises: a source of cerous ion; a source of fatty acid; and optionally, a hydrocarbon solvent. In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion is a cerous salt. In an embodiment, the cerium-fatty acid complex has a molar weight ratio of the cerous salt and the fatty acid ranging from 1:2 to 1:9. In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion comprises any or a combination of cerium nitrate and cerium (III) acetate hydrate. In an embodiment, the source of fatty acid

comprises a fatty acid or a mixture of fatty acids having carbon atoms ranging from C8 to C22. In an embodiment, the hydrocarbon solvent has a carbon number ranging from C7 to C22.
[0023] Further aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for preparing an additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition, the method comprising the steps of: (a) preparing a cerium-fatty acid complex by reacting a source of cerous ion with a source of fatty acid, optionally in presence of a hydrocarbon solvent, at a temperature ranging from 80°C to 150°C for a time period ranging from 20 minutes to 5 hours; and (b) mixing the cerium-fatty acid complex with a low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent having a boiling point ranging from 50°C -100°C in a volume ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1:10 to obtain the additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition. In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion is reacted with the source of fatty acid in vacuum.
[0024] Still further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of preparation of cerium-fatty acid complex comprising: a) a source of cerous ion; b) a source of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids; and c) optionally, a hydrocarbon solvent, the method including the steps of: (i) taking a source of cerous ion; a source of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids; and optionally, a hydrocarbon solvent to form a reaction mixture; and (ii) heating the reaction mixture in vacuum to effect removal of water at crystal sites and/or by-product(s). [0025] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method of preparation of additive, said method comprising: mixing cerium-fatty acid complex and a low boiling hydrocarbon solvent. In an embodiment, volume ratio of the cerium-fatty acid complex and the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent ranges from 1:1 to 1:10. In another embodiment, the additive comprises cerium-fatty acid complex of 10% to 50% in the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent. [0026] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further
understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a
part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the
present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the
principles of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 1A and FIG. IB illustrate an exemplary snippet depicting annular
cutting with hydrocarbon fuel composition 1 and LPG base gas, in accordance
with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B illustrate an exemplary snippet depicting block
cutting with hydrocarbon fuel composition 2 and LPG base gas, in accordance
with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B illustrate an exemplary snippet depicting bevel
cutting with hydrocarbon fuel composition 3 and LPG base gas, in accordance
with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B illustrate an exemplary snippet depicting profile
cutting with hydrocarbon fuel composition 4 and LPG base gas, in accordance
with embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0032] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the present invention. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the invention. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. [0033] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases it will be recognized that references to the

"invention" will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily
all, of the claims.
[0034] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention
disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be
referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of
the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be
included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or
patentability.
[0035] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification
which follow, the word "comprise" and variations thereof, such as, "comprises"
and "comprising" are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense that is as
"including, but not limited to."
[0036] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an
embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described
in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus,
the appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in
various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the
same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or
characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more
embodiments.
[0037] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that
follow, the meaning of "a," "an," and "the" includes plural reference unless the
context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the
meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on" unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise.
[0038] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of
ingredients, properties such as concentration, and so forth, used to describe and
claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being
modified in some instances by the term "about." Accordingly, in some
embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description are
approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be

obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. [0039] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. [0040] The headings and abstract of the invention provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments. [0041] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. "such as") provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention. [0042] The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.
[0043] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.

[0044] The present disclosure, in order to achieve the above mentioned objects, provides a hydrocarbon fuel composition. In particular, the present disclosure pertains to a hydrocarbon fuel composition comprising an additive and a base gas that may be used as a torch gas in wide variety of applications such as metal cutting and welding. The present disclosure also pertains to a method of preparation of the additive and the hydrocarbon fuel composition. [0045] As explained in the background, to overcome the problem associated with conventional additives such as acetylene, the inventors of the present invention utilized cerium based complexes as additive for the preparation of the hydrocarbon fuel composition that may find their application in cutting and welding of the material such as metals, particularly, under high pressure and temperature. However, during the preparation of the additive of cerium based complexes, the inventors of the present invention realized that cerium based complexes, particularly; the cerium-fatty acid complex suffers from the problem of low solubility, and often tends to precipitate out. Inventors of the present disclosure surprisingly found that inclusion of a low boiling hydrocarbon with the cerium-fatty acid complex in a defined proportion to form an additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition, overcome the problem of precipitation of the cerium-fatty acid complex and confer an exceptional resistance thereto, and provide excellent results in cutting and welding operations. Accordingly, the advantageous additive and hydrocarbon fuel compositions realized in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure can be used for cutting and welding of material under high pressure and temperature conditions, with improved homogeneity and shelf-life.
[0046] An aspect of the present disclosure provides an additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition, said additive comprising: a cerium-fatty acid complex and a low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent in a volume ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1:10. In an embodiment, the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent has a boiling point ranging from 50°C - 100°C.
[0047] In an embodiment, the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent is selected from naphtha, pentane, hexane, iso-hexane, heptane, iso-heptane and iso-octane.

[0048] In an embodiment, the cerium-fatty acid complex comprises: a source of cerous ion; a source of fatty acid; and optionally, a hydrocarbon solvent. [0049] In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion is a cerous salt. In an embodiment, the cerium-fatty acid complex has a molar weight ratio of the cerous salt and the fatty acid ranging from 1:2 to 1:9.
[0050] In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion comprises any or a combination of cerium nitrate and cerium (III) acetate hydrate. [0051] In an embodiment, the source of fatty acid comprises a fatty acid or a mixture of fatty acids having carbon atoms ranging from C8 to C22. [0052] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a hydrocarbon fuel composition, said composition comprising: an additive in an amount ranging from 0.01%) to 2%> by weight of the composition; and a base gas in an amount ranging from 98% to 99.99% by weight of the composition. In an embodiment, the additive comprises a cerium-fatty acid complex and a low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent. In an embodiment, the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent has a boiling point ranging from 50°C - 100°C. In an embodiment, the base gas comprises at least 98%) by weight of the composition.
[0053] In an embodiment, the base gas is a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). LPG is available at low cost compared to other fuel gases such as acetylene. LPG is mainly a mixture of C3 and C4 hydrocarbons, (substantially propane and isomers of butane viz., n-butane and i-butane). However, depending on the source of LPG, the same may contain C3 and C4 olefins viz., propylene, 1-butene, 2-butene, i-butylene and butadiene. In an embodiment, the base gas is selected from propane or butane alone or a mixture of these gases or propylene, methylacetylene, propadiene, or their mixture, natural gas or other any other suitable hydrocarbon fuel gas.
[0054] In an embodiment, the additive comprises a cerium-fatty acid complex and a low boiling hydrocarbon solvent. In an embodiment, volume ratio of the cerium-fatty acid complex and the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent ranges from 1:1 to 1:10. In another embodiment, the additive comprises cerium-fatty acid complex of 10% to 50% in the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent. In an

embodiment, the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent is naphtha. In an embodiment,
the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent has a boiling point ranging from 50-100°C,
preferably, 60-75°C. In an embodiment, low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent has
carbon number ranging from C5 to C8. In an embodiment, the low-boiling
hydrocarbon solvent is selected from pentane, hexane, iso-hexane, heptane, iso-
heptane, iso-octane and the likes.
[0055] In an embodiment, for every 1 kg of base gas, about 0.2 ml to 20 ml
additive is added to improve the performance of the base gas in cutting and
welding applications.
[0056] In an embodiment, the cerium-fatty acid complex comprises: a) a
source of cerous ion; b) a source of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids; and c)
optionally a hydrocarbon solvent.
[0057] In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion is a cerous salt. In an
embodiment, the source of cerous ion is selected from any or a combination of
cerium nitrate and cerium (III) acetate hydrate ((CH3C02)3Ce»xH20). However,
it should be appreciated that any other source of cerous ion, as known to a person
skilled in the art, may be used to serve its intended purpose as laid down in
embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0058] In an embodiment, the source of fatty acid is a fatty acid or a mixture
of fatty acids having carbon atom rages from C8 to C22. In an embodiment, the
fatty acid is selected from any or a combination of oleic acid, palmitic acid,
myristic acid and 1 auric acid. However, it should be appreciated that any other
fatty acid, as known to a person skilled in the art, may be used to serve its
intended purpose as laid down in embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0059] In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion is a cerous salt. In an
embodiment, the molar weight ratio of the cerous salt and the fatty acid in the
cerium-fatty acid complex ranges from 1:2 to 1:9, preferably, 1:3 to 1:8.
[0060] In an embodiment, the hydrocarbon solvent is a high boiling
hydrocarbon solvent. In an embodiment, the high boiling hydrocarbon solvent is a selected from a saturated or an unsaturated hydrocarbon, an aromatic hydrocarbon, an iso-paraffin hydrocarbon and mixtures thereof. In an embodiment, the hydrocarbon solvent has carbon number ranging from C7 to C22. In an embodiment, the hydrocarbon solvent is selected from kerosene, 1-octadecene, 1-hexadecene and combination thereof.
[0061] The hydrocarbon fuel composition disclosed in the present invention can be used as a fortified torch gas for metal cutting and welding applications. The hydrocarbon fuel composition comprises additive that may be converted to nanomaterial at oxy-fuel flame environment, and liberates oxygen at molten metal surface, offering superior surface finish at minimum oxygen consumption. This enhances the flame temperature and allows faster cutting, piercing and welding of the material with minimum slag formation. This hydrocarbon fuel composition is more homogenised and offers a shelf-life of at least 6 months. [0062] The hydrocarbon fuel composition also reduces the fuel consumption of torch gases from 10% to 55% while using torch gas in metal cutting, piercing and welding operations, wherein thickness of metal varied from 5 mm to 180 mm. The other advantage offered by the present invention over conventionally used acetylene is that cutting can be performed with oxygen of purity as low as 95% and cutting operation can be performed under water to a depth of about 20 to 300 feet.
[0063] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of preparation of cerium-fatty acid complex comprising: a) a source of cerous ion; b) a source of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids; and c) optionally, a hydrocarbon solvent, the method including the steps of: (i) taking a source of cerous ion; a source of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids; and optionally, a hydrocarbon solvent to form a reaction mixture; and (ii) heating the reaction mixture in vacuum to effect removal of water at crystal sites and/or by-product(s). [0064] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of preparation of cerium-fatty acid complex comprising: a) a source of cerous ion; b) a source of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids; and c) a hydrocarbon solvent, the method including the steps of: (i) taking a source of cerous ion; a source of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids; and a hydrocarbon solvent to form a reaction mixture; and (ii) heating the reaction mixture in the presence of vacuum to effect removal of water at crystal sites and/or by-product(s).
[0065] In an embodiment, the temperature in step (ii) ranges from 80°C to 150°C, preferably 100°C to 135°C. In an embodiment, the reaction time varies from 20 minutes to 5 hours. In an embodiment, the vacuum is applied at a pressure ranging from 400 mm Hg to 600 mm Hg. In an embodiment, the by¬product can be nitric oxide, acetic acid and optionally, unreacted fatty acids or source of cerous ion. In an embodiment, upon completion of reaction a reddish colored viscous liquid is obtained. This reddish colored viscous liquid is the precursor for nano-ceria.
[0066] Further aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for preparing an additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition, the method comprising the steps of: (a) preparing a cerium-fatty acid complex by reacting a source of cerous ion with a source of fatty acid, optionally in presence of a hydrocarbon solvent, at a temperature ranging from 80°C to 150°C for a time period ranging from 20 minutes to 5 hours; and (b) mixing the cerium-fatty acid complex with a low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent having a boiling point ranging from 50°C -100°C in a volume ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1:10 to obtain the additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition.
[0067] In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion is a cerous salt. In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion is selected from any or a combination of cerium nitrate and cerium (III) acetate hydrate ((CH3C02)3Ce»xH20). However, it should be appreciated that any other source of cerous ion, as known to a person skilled in the art, may be used to serve its intended purpose without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.
[0068] In an embodiment, the source of saturated or unsaturated fatty acid is a fatty acid or a mixture of fatty acids having carbon atom rages from C8 to C22. In an embodiment, the fatty acid is selected from any or a combination of oleic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid and lauric acid. However, it should be appreciated that any other fatty acid, as known to a person skilled in the art, may be used to serve its intended purpose without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.
[0069] In an embodiment, the hydrocarbon solvent is a high boiling hydrocarbon solvent. In an embodiment, the high boiling hydrocarbon solvent is selected from a saturated or an unsaturated hydrocarbon, an aromatic hydrocarbon, an iso-paraffin hydrocarbon, wherein carbon number ranging from C7 to C22, and mixture thereof. In an embodiment, the high boiling hydrocarbon solvent is selected from kerosene, 1-octadecene, 1-hexadecene and combination thereof.
[0070] In an embodiment, the source of cerous ion is a cerous salt. In an embodiment, the molar weight ratio of the cerous salt and the fatty acid in the cerium-fatty acid complex ranges from 1:2 to 1:9, preferably, 1:3 to 1:8. [0071] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method of preparation of additive, said method comprising: mixing cerium-fatty acid complex and a low boiling hydrocarbon solvent. In an embodiment, volume ratio of the cerium-fatty acid complex and the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent ranges from 1:1 to 1:10. In another embodiment, the additive comprises cerium-fatty acid complex of 10% to 50% in the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent. In an embodiment, the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent is naphtha. In an embodiment, the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent has a boiling point ranging from 50-100°C, preferably, 60-75°C. In an embodiment, low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent has carbon number ranging from C5 to C8. In an embodiment, the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent is selected from pentane, hexane, iso-hexane, heptane, iso-heptane, iso-ocatne and the likes.
[0072] The additive is in liquid form at room temperature and hence mixing the additive with the base fuel is very simple. In an embodiment, additive can be in solid form. At first, required amount of additive is added to the empty container followed by addition of fuel. For example, in case of LPG, additive is added to the empty cylinder, followed by the addition of LPG under pressure. The obtained hydrocarbon fuel composition can be stored and/or transported safely without any difficulty.

[0073] The present disclosure provides a hydrocarbon fuel composition which is capable of synergistically enhancing the flame temperature and improves the cutting and welding of the material. This synergistic composition exhibits an improved shelf-life of more than 6 months without compromising with its cutting and welding properties.
[0074] While the foregoing description discloses various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope of the disclosure. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art. EXAMPLES
[0075] Preparation of Hydrocarbon fuel composition 1 In a 100 ml round flask fitted with dean-stark apparatus beaker, 36.00 g oleic acid and 6.00 g of cerium (III) acetate hydrate ((CH3C02)3Ce xH20) powder (3.65:1 molar ratio of oleic acid: cerium) was added under stirring at room temperature. The reaction mixture was heated at 100°C for 30 min. The temperature was further increased to 120°C and allowed to stir for another 60 min. About 500 mm Hg vacuum was applied at the top of the condenser of the dean-stark apparatus to remove water and acetic acid from the reaction mixture. The temperature of the reaction mixture was further increased to 130°C and the reaction was allowed to stir at this temperature for another 3 hours under vacuum. Upon completion of the reaction, reddish colored viscous liquid was obtained and it was solidified. About 20g of this solid is dissolved in about 50 ml of n-hexane to obtain additive 1. About 5 ml of this additive 1 was added to an empty LPG cylinder followed by the addition of about 5 kg of LPG under pressure to obtain hydrocarbon fuel composition 1. The performance of the improved fuel composition was evaluated by cutting about 26.5 meter long, 12 mm thick carbon steel metal plate. For comparison purpose, the metal sheet was also cut by using oxy-base LPG. The metal cutting performances of oxy-base LPG and the hydrocarbon fuel

composition 1 are provided in Table 1. The quality of the annular cutting by using hydrocarbon fuel composition 1 and base LPG gas are exhibited in Figure 1A & IB. Table 1: Comparative performance of Hydrocarbon fuel composition 1 vs.
LPG

LPG Composition 1
Annular Rings 20 20
MOC IS 2062 Grade A
Plate Thickness, mm 12 12
No. of piercing 43 44
Average piercing time, sec 19 15
Time, min 50.66 44.35
Cutting length, m 26.278 26.423
Absolute Consumption of Fuel (in kgs) 1.16 1.03
Running length, meter/Kg 22.65 25.65

Saving with Hydrocarbon fuel composition 1
Consumption (in kgs) 0.13 11.2%
Time, min 6.31 12.5%
Running Length, meter/kg 3.00 13.2%
Average piercing time, sec 4 21.1%
Per shift time saving, min ~ lhr 12.5%
[0076] Preparation of Hydrocarbon fuel composition 2
Hydrocarbon fuel composition 2 was prepared by the same method as Hydrocarbon fuel composition 1, except the palmitic acid was used instead of oleic acid. Since the molecular weight of palmitic acid (MW: 256.43) is different than oleic acid (MW: 282.47), the amount of palmitic acid used was also adjusted to 33g instead of 36g.
The performance of the improved fuel composition 2 was evaluated by cutting about 63 mm thick carbon steel block. The quality of surface finish as well as slag

formation by using hydrocarbon fuel composition 2 and base LPG gas are
exhibited in Figure 2A & 2B.
[0077] Preparation of Hydrocarbon fuel composition 3
Hydrocarbon fuel composition 3 was prepared by the same method as Hydrocarbon fuel composition 1, except the myristic acid was used instead of oleic acid. Since the molecular weight of myristic acid (MW: 228.37) is different than oleic acid (MW: 282.47), the amount of myristic acid used was also adjusted to 29 g instead of 36 g.
The performance of the improved fuel composition 3 was evaluated by bevel (60° slanting angle) cutting of 2.5 meter long, 18 mm carbon steel plate. For comparison purpose, the steel plate was also cut by using oxy-base LPG. The metal cutting performances of oxy-base LPG and the hydrocarbon fuel composition 3 are provided in Table 2, exhibiting performance with respect to time taken for cutting, surface finish, slag formation and reduction in fuel consumption. The quality of the bevel cutting by using hydrocarbon fuel composition 3 and base LPG gas are exhibited in Figure 3A & 3B. Table 2: Comparative performance of Hydrocarbon fuel composition 3 vs.
LPG for Bevel cut

LPG Composition 3
Plate Thickness, mm 18 18
Time, min 12.17 12.06
Absolute Consumption of Fuel, gm 190 g 170
Saving with Hydrocarbon fuel composition 3
Consumption, gm 20 11%
[0078] Preparation of Hydrocarbon fuel composition 4
Hydrocarbon fuel composition 4 was prepared by the same method as Hydrocarbon fuel composition 1, except the lauric acid was used instead of oleic acid. Since the molecular weight of lauric acid (MW: 228.37) is different than oleic acid (MW: 200.31), the amount of lauric acid used was also adjusted to 25 g

instead of 36 g and 6.16 g of cerium nitrate was used as cerous salt instead of 6 g of cerium acetate.
The performance of the improved fuel composition 4 was evaluated by profile cutting of 20 mm thick carbon steel plate. For comparison purpose, the steel plate was also cut by using oxy-base LPG. The results obtained on the performance with respect to flame quality by using hydrocarbon fuel composition 4 and base LPG gas are exhibited in Figure 4A & 4B.
ADVANTAGES
[0079] The present disclosure provides a new and improved hydrocarbon fuel
composition.
[0080] The present disclosure provides a hydrocarbon fuel composition with
superior flame characteristics.
[0081] The present disclosure provides a hydrocarbon fuel composition with
improved metal cutting, and welding/brazing applications.
[0082] The present disclosure provides a hydrocarbon fuel composition
comprising mixture of additives that may be converted to nanomaterial at oxy-fuel
flame environment, and liberates oxygen at molten metal surface, offering
superior surface finish at minimum oxygen consumption.
[0083] The present disclosure provides a hydrocarbon fuel composition used
in a fortified torch gas.
[0084] The present disclosure provides a fortified torch gas with faster metal
piercing.
[0085] The present disclosure provides a fortified torch gas for cutting and/or
welding applications with minimum slag formation.
[0086] The present disclosure provides a fortified torch gas that is more
homogenize with base gas and has a shelf-life of at least 6 months.
[0087] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a fortified torch
gas that enables ferrous metal to be cut safely with no spluttering and back flash.
[0088] The present disclosure provides a fortified torch gas that may be used
for cutting or welding under water at considerable depths.

[0089] The present disclosure provides an additive that does not negatively impact the quality of the base gas o fuel.
[0090] The present disclosure provides a method of preparation of additives and hydrocarbon fuel composition which is simple, highly effective, environment friendly, and cost effective.

Claim:

1. An additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition, said additive comprising: a cerium-fatty acid complex and a low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent in a volume ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1:10, said low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent having a boiling point ranging from 50°C - 100°C.
2. A hydrocarbon fuel composition, said composition comprising:
an additive in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 2% by weight of the
composition; and
a base gas in an amount ranging from 98% to 99.99%) by weight of the
composition,
said additive comprising a cerium-fatty acid complex and a low-boiling
hydrocarbon solvent, said low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent having boiling
point ranging from 50°C - 100°C.
3. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the additive comprises the cerium-fatty acid complex and the hydrocarbon solvent in a volume ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1:10.
4. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the base gas is a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
5. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent is selected from naphtha, pentane, hexane, iso-hexane, heptane, iso-heptane and iso-octane.
6. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the cerium-fatty acid complex comprises: a source of cerous ion; a source of fatty acid; and optionally, a hydrocarbon solvent.
7. The composition as claimed in claim 6, wherein the source of cerous ion is a cerous salt.
8. The composition as claimed in claim 7, wherein the cerium-fatty acid complex has a molar weight ratio of the cerous salt and the fatty acid ranging from 1:2 to 1:9.

9. The composition as claimed in claim 6, wherein the source of cerous ion comprises any or a combination of cerium nitrate and cerium (III) acetate hydrate.
10. The composition as claimed in claim 6, wherein the source of fatty acid comprises a fatty acid or a mixture of fatty acids having carbon atoms ranging from C8 to C22.
11. The composition as claimed in claim 6, wherein the hydrocarbon solvent has a carbon number ranging from C7 to C22.
12. A method for preparing an additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition, the method comprising the steps of:
preparing a cerium-fatty acid complex by reacting a source of cerous ion with a source of fatty acid, optionally in presence of a hydrocarbon solvent, at a temperature ranging from 80°C to 150°C for a time period ranging from 20 minutes to 5 hours; and
mixing the cerium-fatty acid complex with a low-boiling hydrocarbon solvent having a boiling point ranging from 50°C - 100°C in a volume ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1:10 to obtain the additive for hydrocarbon fuel composition.