Process of the Past: Conventional Combustion

Combustion, or burning coal, is a complete oxidation process, which primarily produces heat (thermal energy). The by-products are solid waste, Nitrogen Oxide (NOx), Sulfur Oxide (SO2), and carbon dioxide (CO2). Most of which are potentially hazardous to the environment.

In short, burning coal limits its value, is dirty, and makes the control and capture of CO2 very difficult, if not impossible.

The Process of Change: Gasification

Gasification is a partial oxidation process which converts coal, lignite, petcoke, biomass and various combustible wastes, into syngas (Synthesis Gas). Syngas can be used to produce electric power and a number of high-value, clean energy products such as chemicals, fertilizers, substitute natural gas, hydrogen, steam, and transportation fuels.

Gasification produces nearly zero emissions and the by-products (sulfur and slag) are non hazardous and marketable as is. (according to the U.S. Department of Energy) Furthermore, gasification plants use significantly less water than traditional coal-based plants and CO2 can be captured for storage, sold for EOR (Enhanced Oil Recovery) or ECBM (Enhanced Coal Bed Methane) using available, commercially proven technology.

The economic benefits of producing high-value, clean energy products from low/no cost feedstocks are significant. Gasification recovers the full energy potential of these feedstocks while greatly reducing disposal costs and environmental impact.

ZEEP's Deployment of the PWR Compact Gasification Technology