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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Low temperature reaction path for coal liquefaction

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6086056
Onset of a solvent-coal reaction occurs in the 200 to 300/sup 0/C temperature range. The temperature and extent of this reaction are dependent on the coal and solvent. In this initial reaction, THF soluble products increase but solvent is lost indicating formation of a THF soluble, coal-solvent reaction product. This reaction product, defined in the preasphaltene or asphaltal compounds, results in high viscosity products, possibly gels. These data show the coal itself does not undergo thermosolvolysis at temperatures to 300/sup 0/C and free radical processes need not be invoked to explain the reactions observed in the 200 to 300/sup 0/C range. The data do suggest an initial series reaction of coal + solvent ..-->.. preasphaltenes. The hydrogen donating capability of the solvent does not appear to be critical, but functional groups that can interact with the coal and cause swelling are important. Preasphaltene chemistry needs further clarification. This reaction product imparts high viscosity to the slurry and its chemistry may influence subsequent liquefaction reactions. Understanding of this initial reaction is important to evaluate the applicability of advanced, two-stage liquefaction processes and could lead to the development of new, low temperature and pressure liquefaction schemes.
Research Organization:
Sandia Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
EY-76-C-04-0789
OSTI ID:
6086056
Report Number(s):
SAND-79-0738C; CONF-790917-7
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English