Combining steam power processes with carbon-rich fuel gasification - esp. of coal underground, for hydrogen production under economic conditions

摘要

In a low pressure stage of the steam power process, the steam is given an intermediate superheating, to a temp. at which, >=10% of the steam fed to the gasifier is split. The released oxygen and the carbon are combined and the remaining energy of the steam/gas mixt. leaving the gasifier is returned to the steam power process. The remaining heat may be utilised in a waste heat boiler or the steam/gas mixture may be fed to the low pressure end of a turbine. Between waste heat boiler and turbine an electrostatic filter is fitted. The system is esp. suited to the underground gasification of coal, and the energy required for the repeated vaporising and condensing of large amts. of steam necessary in the process for obtaining hydrogen, can be converted into mechanical or electrical energy. The difference between the present and conventional techniques is that in a low pressure stage a (second) intermediate superheating to 900 degrees C is undertaken. Relatively to the steam applied, much more hydrogen is produced much more economically.