Abstract |
The report represents the current data base for the environmental assessment of low- and medium-Btu gasification technology. Purpose of the report is to determine: processes that can be used to produce low/medium-Btu gas from coal, uses of the product gas, multimedia discharge streams generated by the processes, and the technology required to control the discharge streams. Attention is on the processes that appear to have the greatest likelihood of near-term commercialization. This type of screening provides the preliminary basis for establishing priorities for subsequent phases of the low/medium-Btu gasification environmental assessment program. Processes required to produce low/medium-Btu gas from coal are divided into discrete operations: coal pretreatment, gasification, and gas purification. Each operation is divided into discrete modules, each having a defined function and identifiable raw materials, products, and discharge streams. This volume includes a discussion of the status, significant trends, major process operations, multimedia discharge stream control strategies, and recommendations for future program activities. |