An investigation of the applied chemistry of the reactions of coal and nitrogen dioxide with a particular emphasis on oxidative desulfurization

Citation

Kralik, James Gregory (1982) An investigation of the applied chemistry of the reactions of coal and nitrogen dioxide with a particular emphasis on oxidative desulfurization. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. http://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-11232005-112642

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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