An Investigation of the Applied Chemistry of the Reactions of Coal and Nitrogen Dioxide with a Particular Emphasis on Oxidative Desulfurization

Author: Kralik, James Gregory

Year: 1982

Degree: Dissertation (Ph.D.)

Advisor: Corcoran, William Harrison

Committee Members: Corcoran, William Harrison; Gavalas, George R.; Kalvinskas, John J.; Shair, Fredrick H.

Option: Chemical Engineering; Chemistry

DOI: 10.7907/r7z7-6s05

Abstract

The physical and chemical changes in coal resulting from mild oxidation at ambient conditions with NO₂ were studied. Various liquid phases were used as transport media for the NO₂. Subsequent to the oxidation, the coal was subjected to a wash with aqueous Na₂CO₃ at ambient conditions. Particular attention was given to the desulfurization of the coal. A mathematical model of the reactions between NO2 and coal at temperatures less than 100°C and a pressure of 1 atm was developed from the experimental data. This model included the simultaneous diffusion and reaction of NO₂ in the solid-coal matrix and considered pore diffusion not to be controlling. The elemental composition and the energy content, after processing were extensively examined. The effect of the NO₂ treatment on the pore structure was established.

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