Direct SNG production by the CS/R hydrogasification process

The CS/R Hydrogasification Process utilizes a short residence-time entrained-flow reactor, derived from aerospace rocket reactor technology, for quickly reacting pulverized coal with hot hydrogen to directly produce substitute natural gas (SNG). Development testing has indicated the feasibility of two primary process options: the production of SNG as the sole major product or the coproduction of SNG and chemical-grade benzene. Recent emphasis has focused on process design, optimization, and economics. Preliminary design studies of commercial-scale (250 x 10/sup 9/ Btu/day) grassroots SNG plants have been completed for two widely different types of feedstock: Kentucky No. 9 hvAb coal and Minnesota peat. This paper summarizes the pertinent experimental data and analytical modeling studies of flash hydropyrolysis used as a basic input to the process design effort. The commercial process flowsheets for each feedstock are described, and the resultant capital and operating costs are discussed. Sensitivity analyses are presented relating the cost of gas to the major process operating variables and economic parameters.