Laboratory Studies Supporting in-Situ Coal Gasification: A Chemical Engineering Technician's Role

摘要

In-situ gasification is a potentially important method of producing substitute natural gas from underground coal sources. Hence, pyrolysis experiments with blocks of coal were performed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory to study the mechanisms of underground coal gasification. Successful operation of the block pyrolyzer (at conditions up to 1300 K with a hydrogen atmosphere) relies upon the technician's knowledge and skill, affording many opportunities for him to utilize his training: computerized data logging, sampling, tool handling, laboratory techniques, reporting, data analysis, and instrumentation techniques. Moreover, additional duties include full responsibility for experiment preparation, operation, maintenance, and post-run organization. (ERA citation 06:005646)