Cleaner, More Efficient Power Plants Possible with Optimized Coal Gasification
The scientists looked at how different factors affect the efficiency of a 200 MW power plant that uses a special way to turn coal into gas. They found that when the gasification temperature and pressure are higher, the power plant is less efficient. Using purer oxygen in the process makes the plant more efficient. Also, increasing the amount of coal used in the second stage can help make the system work better. By adjusting the amount of oxygen based on how much coal is in the mix, they can convert carbon efficiently at different coal concentrations.