Production of Hydrogen from Coal Char in an Electrofluid Reactor

Abstract

<p>A potential industrial process for producing a hydrogen-rich synthesis gas by reacting coal char and steam in an electrofluid reactor is described. The characteristics of this type of reactor are reviewed, and a reaction model which appears to fit experimental results is proposed. Product gas compositions and energy requirements predicted by the model for the gasification process are presented for various possible operating conditions. The present state of development of the reaction system and foreseeable problems which must be worked out are reviewed. In addition, the adaptation of the process to the production of various products such as hydrogen, methane, and methanol is discussed.</p>