The current state of research regarding ultra clean coal production
Abstract
Ultra clean coal by definition is coal that contains less than 1% by weight ash. The creation of this coal is via chemical leaching, as conventional, physical separating techniques simply cannot achieve this extremely low mineral content. Unfortunately, to date the quantity and in some cases quality of research performed on this topic is diminutive. This paper focuses on the small amount of published research regarding the process for creating ultra clean coal. Information that was available pertaining to combustion behaviour of such a product and regeneration of reagents has also been reviewed. The objective of this paper is to identify those ideas that appear credible and worthy of further investigation. Additional research in a timely manner is vital if the negative stigma associated with coal is to be overcome. Clean coal is possible but cannot be achieved unless further studies are conducted to gain a deeper understanding, more specifically, impacts on the carbonaceous matrix, energy requirements for reagent recycling and the final product’s performance when utilised as an alternative material in the various identified applications.
Authors:
- David Morrison
- Richard Dewhirst