Influence of coal properties on coal conversion processes-coal carbonization, carbon fiber production, gasification and liquefaction technologies: a review

Coal due to its relatively large quantities and wide distribution worldwide has generated renewed interest in research and development with the aim of establishing coal conversion technologies that are technically reliable, environmentally and economically feasible. It has proved to be a prominent energy source in emerging markets with increasing energy demand by accounting for the largest increase in the demand of energy amongst all other energy sources. Furthermore, with its higher mesophase content, coal tar is an appropriate raw material for precursors in the production of carbon fiber. However, whenever a material is put to use, it is important to be able to associate its properties to the behavioral characteristics during a conversion process so as to have a basis for opting for the material in a given process or adjusting the operating conditions in order to optimize the material utilization. Therefore, as with any other material, it is important to be able to relate the properties of coal to its utilization. A review was carried out on the influence of coal properties on four main utilization technologies: gasification, carbonization, liquefaction and carbon fibre production. Among several properties rank, type, mineral matter content, distribution of trace elements, structural composition and pore structure were found to be most influential on the behavior of coal during conversion processes.