Chemical looping combustion (CLC)

Chemical-looping combustion (CLC) is a new combustion technology with inherent separation of the greenhouse gas CO2. The technology involves the use of a metal oxide as an oxygen carrier which transfers oxygen from combustion air to the fuel, and hence a direct contact between air and fuel is avoided. Two inter-connected fluidized beds, i.e. fuel reactor and air reactor, are used in the process. The outlet gas from the fuel reactor consists ideally of CO2 and H2O, and the latter is easily removed by condensation. This chapter presents the basic principles, gives an overview of oxygen-carrier materials and operational experiences, discusses the application to gaseous, liquid and solid fuels, and the use for combustion as well as for hydrogen production