Potential of Coal-Based Fuel and Energy Complexes: A Regional Appraisal

摘要

Reported is a project designed to develop suitable methodology for assessing the potential of various conversion technologies capable of utilizing coal in the Appalachian region to provide clean fuels and energy. Research involves development and use of engineering models for mining, conversion, and transmission in a systems evaluation. The integrated systems analysis, under constraints of resource availability and environmental quality, will permit economic criteria to form the basis for selecting technologies with the highest potential for the region. A review of literature sources provided information to establish the scope and extent of previous work. Six plant sites for study were selected on the basis of coal availability, water supplies, and topographically allowable space. Environmental and legal restrictions were also considered. Coal mining and processing are being studied, including conversion processes for coal utilization and the transmission of fuels and energy. In addition, process system analysis capabilities are being developed.