SNG Production from Coal: A Possible Solution to Energy Demand

AbstractIn some areas of the world, natural gas demand cannot be fully satisfied either by domestic sources or foreign imports, while abundant coal resources are available. The conversion of coal to Substitute Natural Gas, SNG, by coal gasification and subsequent syngas methanation is one of the possible solutions to solve the problem. Foster Wheeler has developed a simple process for SNG production, named VESTA, utilizing catalysts from Clariant. The process concept has been proven by laboratory tests, and a demonstration unit will soon be completed.The VESTA process is very flexible and can handle syngas coming from several sources such as coal, biomass, petroleum coke and solid waste. In this paper our overview of the technology and its development status will be outlined