Structure and thermochemical kinetic studies of coal pyrolysis

Abstract

The overallobjectivesof thisprojectis an intensiveefforton the applicationof laserto the microscopicstructureand thermochemical kineticstudiesof coalparticlespyrolysis,char combustion and ash transformationst combustionlevel heat fluxes in a laser beam. Research emphasis in FY91 is placed on setup and calibrationof the laser pyrolysis system,preparation and mass lossstudiesof Beulahligniteand subbituminous coals.The task is therefore divided intothree subtasks. SUBTASK 1 SETUP AND CALIBRATIONOF THE LASERSYSTEM During the early part of FY91, considerable time and effort were expended in a complete overhaul of the Co2 Model C41 laser. The exercise was necessaryin order to reestablish the full operational capabilities of the laser. New sets of mirrors and lenseswere installed and realigned. The power meter was calibrated against a modern COHERENTLabmaster power meter. In April, a consignment of standard,well-characterized and protected coal samples was received from the NationalCoal Repositories at Argonne National Laboratory and Penn State University. SUBTASK 2 ABSORPTION RATE DATA FOR BEULAH ZAP LIGNITE Objective: To obtain data for mass increase due to absorbed moisture for the Beulah Zap ligniteand other subbituminouscoals. Deliverables: A comprehensive data on the rate of absorptionof moisture by the lignite and subbituminous coals from their initial dry state.