Application of Modern Coal Technologies to Military Facilities. Volume II. Evaluation of the Applicability and Cost of Current and Emerging Coal Technologies for the Utilization of Coal as a Primary Energy Source.

摘要

This report presents an overview of various technologies which are potentially applicable to replacement of oil and natural gas by coal at Army installations. Direct combustion of coal and conversion of coal to synthetic liquid and gaseous fuels are the two broad technology categories which are considered. In both categories there are commercial processes and processes under development. Near-term and long-range possibilities have been identified as have processes, systems, and technologies which are unsuited to the end application. Results of the study indicate that direct combustion of coal, using either conventional equipment or the experimental fluidized-bed system, is probably the preferred approach to eliminate natural gas and oil. High-Btu gas derived from coal may have some applications but costs appear excessive. Production of liquid fuels from coal cannot complete economically with other alternatives due to the small scale of the facility required.