Multiuse Coke Plant for Synthetic Fuel Production
Purdue University researchers have developed an optimization algorithm for coke that could reduce annual coal fuel costs by up to 10 percent while allowing consideration for overlooked byproducts that now have revenue potential. This cost reduction is obtained through the use of less costly, lower heat content, high-sulfur coal from sources such as the Illinois Basin. Previously, the high-sulfur content was a detriment for coal users and almost made this coal unusable due to its undesirable trait of forming hydrogen sulfide during the pyrolysis process. This technology can also place a value on this sulfur content. With modern technology and the current economic drivers for alternative energy, pyrolysis gas has a multitude of uses including the production of electricity, liquid transportation fuels, fertilizer, and hydrogen. The value of lower-grade coal alternatives can now be identified, and better yet, maximized.
Reduced cost of coal through utilization of Illinois Basin coalEnhanced revenue streams
MaterialsManufacturing
Robert KramerPurdue Mechanical Engineering
United States
8,287,696
USA
