Microbiological desulfurization of coal

摘要

A method for reducing the sulfur content of coal wherein comminuted coal is contacted with an enrichment culture which contains acid tolerant Thiobacillus species in combination with acid tolerant hetrotrophic microorganisms in an amount effective to act in a symbotic or synergistic manner with the Thiobacillus species. The initial pH of the coal culture combination may be selected so as to enhance the development of a commercially practical rate of sulfur removal.