Selected aspects of coal gasification for application in low-emission energy technologies

Abstract

Solid fuel electricity generation has been known and used for many years. The combustion of solid fuels is a complex process that requires proper preparation of the fuel, carrying out the combustion process, as well as the removal of harmful substances in the form of dust and gaseous pollutants (NOx, SOx, CO) from exhaust gases emitted into the environment. For decades, the gaseous form has been considered the noblest form of fuel. Gaseous fuels can be easily transported over long distances, are immediately ready for combustion and the composition of the fuel mixture can be freely adjusted. The constant pursuit to reduce anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions require the use of low-emission and zero-emission energy generation technologies. In the case of coal, this will mean a shift from direct combustion to more advanced systems powered by gaseous fuel. The paper presents an overview of the available techniques and technologies of solid fuel gasification aimed at the production of gaseous fuels, which can be used in low-emission energy technologies. The computational methods of the gasification process are also presented, which allow the selection of the best technology and operating parameters of individual reactors.