Abstract |
A new process has been developed for removing sulfur from coal (as power plant fuel) during the combustion phase. In this process, coal is dissolved by injection into molten iron and simultaneously the dissolved coal carbon is oxidized with injected air to carbon monoxide. Under the reducing conditions existing during combustion, coal sulfur is not oxidized, but transferred from the iron to a slag consisting of coal ash and added limestone. Thus, a sulfur-free offgas is produced for use in power plant boilers. Experimental combustor studies have shown that a boiler stack gas, containing less than 50 ppm sulfur dioxide is produced. Combustor design parameters were established, and indicate that three 38-foot I.D. combustors are required for a 1000 MW plant. Laboratory work has shown the slags can be successfully desulfurized with steam to produce elemental sulfur and a H2S/SO2 gas stream suitable for additional elemental sulfur recovery in a Claus Plant. Costs are given. (Author) |