In the heart of Beijing, researchers at the China Coal Research Institute Company of Energy Conservation are making strides in understanding and optimizing the combustion of coal gasification ash, a byproduct that has long been a challenge for the energy sector. Led by Long Chen, a team of scientists has delved into the physical properties and combustion characteristics of coal water slurry gasifier cinder, shedding light on how to make this process more efficient and environmentally friendly.
The team’s findings, published in *Meitan kexue jishu* (which translates to *Coal Science and Technology*), reveal that the density and particle size of the ash slag vary significantly depending on its state and processing. “The density of wet ash slag ranges from 620 to 650 kg/m³,” Chen explains, “but when it’s decarburized, the fine slag has a density of 421 kg/m³, while the coarse slag measures 465 kg/m³.” This variation is crucial for understanding how the ash behaves during combustion.
The research also highlights the importance of temperature, oxygen concentration, and heating rate in the combustion process. Through thermogravimetric analysis, the team found that the ignition temperature of the fine slag varies between 540 and 590°C, with a burnout temperature ranging from 598 to 722°C. “At an oxygen concentration of 22% and a heating rate of 30 K/min, peak weight loss reaches -12.3%,” Chen notes. These findings provide valuable insights into the kinetic parameters of the combustion process, which can be leveraged to improve efficiency.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is its potential commercial impact. The team conducted a pilot test using a rotating cone burner, demonstrating that the rotary combustor can effectively and steadily combust and vaporize fine slag. “The combustion efficiency exceeds over 90% with residual carbon content in fine slag remaining below 5%,” Chen reports. This level of efficiency could significantly reduce the environmental footprint of coal gasification processes, making them more sustainable and economically viable.
The implications of this research extend beyond immediate applications. By understanding the combustion characteristics of coal gasification ash, the energy sector can develop more advanced technologies for waste management and resource recovery. This could lead to the development of new materials or energy sources derived from what was once considered waste, opening up new avenues for innovation and commercialization.
As the world continues to seek sustainable energy solutions, research like Chen’s provides a beacon of hope. By optimizing the combustion of coal gasification ash, we can move closer to a future where energy production is not only efficient but also environmentally responsible. The findings from this study are a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and its potential to shape the future of the energy sector.