Applications for Syngas
("Synthesis Gas")
Syngas is a hydrogen and methane rich gas that results from the partial oxidisation of coal in the underground coal gasification ("UCG") reactor. The quality of the syngas is varied and depends upon whether air or oxygen-enhanced-air is used in the UCG process. Typically, syngas from a UCG reactor has 1/3 of the calorfic value of natural gas and has a wide variety of applications.
Electricity Production
Syngas can be used to fuel a Combined Cycle Gas Plant ("CCGP") to produce electricity that is cost competitive with electricity generation from conventional coal-fired power plants. In addition it reduces both the carbon dioxide emissions and NOx and SOx emissions, which helps countries to meet their greenhouse gas and clean-air targets. In addition, it can be closely integrated with Carbon Capture and Storage ("CSS") technologies to further reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
Methanol
Methanol is a toxic chemical with chemical formula CH3OH (often abbreviated MeOH). It is the simplest alcohol, and is a light, volatile, colourless, flammable, toxic liquid with a distinctive odour. At room temperature it is a polar liquid and is used as an antifreeze, solvent, fuel, and as a denaturant for ethanol. It is also used for producing biodiesel and has a promising future as a transportation fuel.
Dimethyl ether ("DME")
Dimethyl ether (DME) is a compound with the formula CH3OCH3 and can be made from methanol (see above). The simplest ether, it is a colourless gas that is a useful precursor to other organic compounds and as an aerosol propellant. Dimethyl ether is also promising as a clean-burning hydrocarbon fuel for cars and buses.
Ammonia Fertiliser
Syngas can be processed into ammonia which is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen with the formula NH3. It is normally encountered as a gas with a characteristic pungent odour. Ammonia contributes significantly to the nutritional needs of terrestrial organisms by serving as a precursor to foodstuffs and fertilizers.
Iron Production
Syngas is an important component of iron production: the syngas is mixed at high temperature with iron ore to extract the metal.
