Catalytic coal gasification: an emerging technology for SNG

A discovery that coal catalyzed with potassium salts promotes methanation of the coal gasification products stemmed a reactor process concept called CCG--Catalytic Coal Gasification. The synergism of the chemistry is explained. A proposed commercial plant processing sequence is schematized. Principle debits are also listed (corrosive effects of potassium salts requires heavy construction materials, for example). Development from bench research to pilot plant testing is outlined. At present, the program is in the process development phase at a PDU located in Baytown, Texas. The tower structure is illustrated. In April, 1981 a successful 23 day run was achieved. Large pilot plant design challenges may now be considered. A project for a 100 TPD Pilot Plant is currently in the process design phase.