AndreaBozzo/ceres-open-data-index huggingface dataset:
Mild gasification of steam-conditioned bituminous coal in fluidized beds: Technical note

A detailed systems analysis of a commercial-scale mild gasification process has been performed. The process includes (1) a conceptual design of the process, (2) mass and energy balances that were calculated with the use of the Advanced System for Process Engineering (ASPEN) process simulator, and (3) a detailed economic assessment that includes several sensitivity studies. In this conceptual study, 1 million tons per year, dry basis, of Pittsburgh No. 8 coal are conditioned with steam at 700/degree/F for 5 minutes in a fluidized-bed and devolatilized at 1000/degree/F for 3 minutes in a second fluidized-bed. Volatiles are condensed and liquid condensate and gas are separated. Liquid production is 340,000 tons per year (approximately 1,870,000 barrels per year) based on an increased liquid yield due to steam conditioning of 37 weight percent of dry, ash-free coal (DAF). This assumed yield is based on bench-scale experimental results for steam-conditioned coal (Graff 1987). Gas produced in the process is internally consumed for char heating and steam generation. Net char production is 466,000 ton/yr. 27 refs., 3 figs., 3 tabs.

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Pulsed atmospheric fluidized bed combustion

The design of the Pulsed Atmospheric Fluidized Bed Combustor (PAFBC) as described in the Quarterly Report for the period April--June, 1992 was reviewed and minor modifications were included. The most important change made was in the coal/limestone preparation and feed system. Instead of procuring pre-sized coal for testing of the PAFBC, it was decided that the installation of a milling system would permit greater flexibility in the testing with respect to size distributions and combustion characteristics in the pulse combustor and the fluid bed. Particle size separation for pulse combustor and fluid bed will be performed by an air classifier. The modified process flow diagram for the coal/limestone handling system is presented in Figure 1. The modified process flow diagrams of the fluidized bed/steam cycle and ash handling systems are presented in Figures 2 and 3, respectively.

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Site visit report:  Georgetown University fluidized-bed combustor, Washington, DC. Final report

This Site Visit Report describes the procedures used to collect samples of coal, limestone, and combined waste (fly ash and spent bed material) from the fluidized bed boiler at Georgetown University's Steam Generating Plant in Washington, DC. A layout of the plant, including its feed and waste material handling systems is provided. A discussion of the plant's materials handling procedures leads to the development of the sampling schedule used to ensure that the waste sampled was that generated from the sampled lots of feedstocks. Also included is a description of the procedures used to process, containerize, and label each sample type.

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Aspects of non-Newtonian flow and displacement in porous media

The rheology of many heavy oils has been shown to be non-Newtonian, Bingham plastics being one manifestation of heavy oil flow. In EOR applications, non-Newtonian fluids such as low concentration polymer solutions, emulsions, gels etc. are simultaneously injected to increase the viscosity of driving agents that displace oil. Such rheologically complex fluids are used to improve sweep efficiencies, divert displacing fluids and block swept zones. The present study has been undertaken to understand the flow of non-Newtonian fluids through porous media. The work considered involves the numerical (pore network) modeling of both single and multiphase flow of power-law and Bingham plastic fluids in network-like porous media. We consider aspects of both single- and multi-phase flow and displacement. Section 2 describes elementary aspects of non-Newtonian flow and some simple models for porous media. Viscoelastic effects in the flow of non-Newtonian fluids are also discussed. The section includes a brief literature review on non-Newtonian flow in porous media. Section 3 describes single-phase flow.

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Approximation of continuity of lenticular Mesaverde sandstone lenses, utilizing close-well correlations, Piceance Basin, northwest, Colorado. Western Gas Sands Project

Mesaverde Group sandstone units in 13 closely-spaced wells in the central and southern Piceance Basin of Colorado were correlated utilizing wireline log response quantitatively and qualitatively. Based on these correlations, the environmental subdivisions of the Mesaverde Group were characterized as follows. Paralic (upper mixed-marine) zone, occurring in the uppermost Mesaverde, includes thick sandstone units which are interpreted to be regionally continuous. Fluvial zone, containing point-bars 20 to 30  ft thick, is interpreted to be correlatable to a maximum of 6800 ft. Paludal zone, which has insufficient data to adequately characterize the sand units. However, 63 percent of the units are correlatable across at least 139 ft. An approximation of the dimensional characteristics of Mesaverde sandstone units has potential applications in designing hydraulic fracturing treatments and estimating gas reserves more accurately. 16 figures, 2 tables

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Data requirements and acquisition for reservoir characterization

This report outlines the types of data, data sources and measurement tools required for effective reservoir characterization, the data required for specific enhanced oil recovery (EOR) processes, and a discussion on the determination of the optimum data density for reservoir characterization and reservoir modeling. The two basic sources of data for reservoir characterization are data from the specific reservoir and data from analog reservoirs, outcrops, and modern environments. Reservoir data can be divided into three broad categories: (1) rock properties (the container) and (2) fluid properties (the contents) and (3)interaction between reservoir rock and fluid. Both static and dynamic measurements are required.

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Surface coal gasification. [Bibliography]

The United States Department of Energy recognizes the deficiencies in available gasifiers and associated process systems and the dilemma facing industry in developing improved gasification systems for vague markets. Thus, they sponsored development of second- and third-generation processes, at least through the pilot plant and process development unit (PDU) stages, in the Surface Coal Gasification Pilot Plant/PDU Program. Technology crosscut was addressed in METC's first topical report on Surface Coal Gasification (DOE/METC/SP-110, October 1980). The information and data presented in that first report are, for the most part, still valid. For this second report a slightly modified approach is taken with additional information provided. An updated comparison of four coal gasification pilot plants/PDU's summarizes the following common problems associated with generic unit operation areas: coal preparation, gasifier, gas cleanup, instrumentation, and materials. Some of the problems are considered in detail.

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Crow Tribe of Indians:  synfuels feasibility study. Volume I. Executive summary

This study presents the feasibility of using the abundant natural coal resources of the Crow Tribe of Indians to produce and sell substitute natural gas (SNG) from their Montana reservation. Four cases of an SNG production capacity of 125 million standard cubic foot per calendar day (expandable to 250 MMSCF/CD) are analyzed as to coal supply, coal transportation, raw water supply, solid waste disposal and site selection and preparation. All cases use the proven Lurgi coal gasification technology. An SNG and byproduct market analysis is made and a cost-of-service for the cases is determined. Environmental impact, health and safety requirements, socioeconomic aspects, and legal constraints are examined and discussed. The financial opportunities and risks offered potential energy investors are weighted heavily by current economic conditions and a soft fuels market. The project is technically and environmentally feasible. The uncertainty of energy markets and supply, however, makes it impossible to make the financial commitment required to move the project forward at this time. Therefore, it is recommended that the project be delayed indefinitely. In addition, there are a number of steps identified that the Crow must take to attract equity investors if the project is to proceed at some future date.

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Pressurized fluidized-bed hydroretorting of Eastern oil shales oil dedusting

This Topical Report on   Shale Oil Dedusting''presents the results of a research program conducted by the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT, Chicago) to determine the suitability and effectiveness of the lamella electrosettler -- a novel solid-liquid separation device -- for removing fine shale particles from shale oil via the application of an electric field. The work was conducted by IIT from November 1989 through December 1990 as a subcontractor to the Institute of Gas Technology. The overall objective of the larger program was to develop the   Pressurized Fluidized-Bed Hydroretorting (PFH) Process for EasternOil Shales.''The subtask undertaken by IIT was part of a larger task entitled   Testing of Process Improvement Concepts.''The lamella electrosettler has been shown to be an effective method for separating fine particulate (including colloidal) matter from a liquid using the application of an electric field. Using the walls of the settler as electrodes and during continuous operation, solids migrate preferentially toward one of the electrodes and become concentrated in the refuse stream. The product stream is clarified of particulates. The success of the process depends upon the physical properties of the solids and liquids being tested. A sample with a high specific conductance is not suitable for separation in the lamella electrosettler. The liquid begins to heat up under the influence of the electric field and, eventually, may short. Also, under these conditions, the particles cannot maintain a charge. The high conductivity of the shale oil samples tested rendered them unsuitable for further testing in the lamella electrosettler.

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Site visit report:  Pennsylvania Electric Company Keystone Generating Station, Shelocta, Pennsylvania. Final report

This report details the activities, facilities, and equipment used to sample raw feedstock and waste solids at Pennsylvania Electric Company's Keystone Generating Station. Explanation of sampling locations, deviations from the test plan, sampling techniques (in accordance with the Fossil Energy Waste General Sampling Guideline), and plant design are reviewed.

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Site visit report:  Southwestern Electric Power Company Welsh Plant, Pittsburg, Texas. Final report

This report details the activities, facilities, and equipment used to sample raw coal feedstock and waste solids at the Southwestern Electric Power Company's Welsh Plant in Pittsburg, Texas. Explanation of sampling locations, deviations from the Test Plan, sampling techniques (in accordance with the Fossil Energy Waste General Sampling Guideline), and plant design are reviewed.

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Development of a unique system for the combined removal of sulfur compounds and fine particulates from hot coal derived fuel gases: Final report

A system for the combined high temperature removal of reduced sulfur compounds and fine particulate matter contained in coal derived gas streams is being developed. The hot gas cleanup process is based on the use of calcium based ultrafine sulfur sorbent particles. Under normal conditions, the sorbent powders are highly cohesive and are not applicable to processes requiring pneumatic transport, gas-solids fluidization and cyclone separation. The sorbents, however, were physically mixed with a special fibrous carbonaceous material which has been developed at TRW, Inc. When admixed with the normally cohesive powders, the carbon imparts desirable fluid dynamic properties to the binary material mixture which allows the use of a circulating fluid bed reactor as the hot gas cleanup device. Depending on the sorbent selected as little as 5% to as high as 15% by weight addition of fibrous carbon was sufficient to impart acceptable gas phase fluidization to the cohesive powders based on cold flow fluidization tests. When the binary material mixture was evaluated for sulfur capture in simulated coal derived gas streams, the level of gaseous sulfur species converted to a solid sulfide was essentially complete. The level of sorbent utilization (sulfur loading) while maintaining 90% gaseous sulfur removal was typically 80% of the stoichiometric value. These results were typical of all the sorbents tested, independent of the starting form of the sorbent. 13 refs., 95 figs., 56 tabs.

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Analysis of atmospheric fluidized bed combustion agglomerates. Final report

Chemical and textural studies of AFBC agglomerates have revealed detailed information regarding the mechanisms of agglomeration. The formation of agglomerates in a silica sand bed can be described by a four step process: initial ash coatings of quartz grains; thickening of ash coatings and the formation of nodules; cementation of nodules to each other by a sulfated aluminosilicate matrix; and partial or complete melting of eutectic compositions to produce a sticky glass phase between grains and along fractures. Once agglomeration has begun, large scale solidification and restricted flow within the bed will lead to hot spots, wholesale melting and further agglomeration which ultimately forces a shutdown. Standard operating temperatures during normal AFBC runs come quite close to, or may actually exceed, the minimum temperatures for eutectic melting of the silicate phases in the coal and standard bed materials. The partially melted material may be expected to lead to the formation of dense, sticky areas within the bed, and the formation of hot spots which further exacerbate the problem. Ultimately, large scale bed agglomeration will result. Attempts to eliminate agglomeration by removal of sodium via an ion exchange process have yielded encouraging results. A second approach, used to raise melting temperatures within the bed, has been to use bed materials that may react with low-temperature minerals to produce high-temperature refractory phases such as mullite or other alkali and alkali-earth alumino-silicates.

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Investigation of Tar Sand and Heavy Oil Deposits of Utah for Underground Coal Gasification Applications

A literature review was conducted to determine spatial and geological relationships between Utah's tar sand or heavy oil deposits and coal deposits, and to evaluate these relationships in terms of suitability for underground coal gasification (UCG) applications. The investigation was undertaken as part of a Department of Energy-sponsored project to find new uses for UCG technology by utilizing process heat or combustible gases from UCG in thermal recovery of oil from unconventional sources. Fifteen of Utah's tar sand or heavy oil deposits are located within 5 miles of suitable coal deposits, which is the maximum distance considered economically practical for transport of UCG gases. Six of these deposits may be suitable for on-site development, where UCG could be conducted in coal beds directly under the oil reservoirs. Substantial portions of four major tar sand or heavy oil deposits are included in the resources suitable for UCG applications, i.e., Sunnyside, Asphalt Ridge, Ashphalt Ridge Northwest, and Raven Ridge. However, total resources cannot be calculated directly from published data. 31 refs., 9 figs., 2 tabs.

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Entrained flow gasification at elevated pressure: Quarterly technical progress report No. 8 for the period 1 December 1986 to 28 February 1987

The three main tasks of this study are: (1) entrained coal gasification measurements, which include elevated pressure tests of three coal types, investigation of injector design, cold-flow measurements in simulated gasifier flows, and investigation of advanced optical diagnostic techniques that could be applied to gasification measurements; (2) improvement of the computer code for gasification processes, including improvement of physical submodels and numerical methods, and comparison of model predictions with experimental results for code validation; and (3) application of results to industrial and METC needs through technical seminars, expansion of a  detailed data book, and distribution of the code to other users, especially METC. During this quarter, all of the experimental tests were completed. Chemical analysis of the samples taken was continued, analysis of the gasification data was continued, and preparation of the final report was initiated. Modeling work was near completion. 23 refs., 1 tab.

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Western Gas Sands

Western gas sands research is conducted by the US Department of Energy's (DOE) Morgantown Energy Technology Center to encourage the development of very low-permeability lenticular gas sands in the western US. This research is an integral part of DOE's Unconventional Gas Recovery Program, which is a multi-disciplinary effort to develop the technology for producing natural gas from resources that have been classified as unconventional because of unique geologies and production mechanisms. The purpose of this research is to demonstrate to private industry the feasibility of economically producing natural gas from these low-permeability reservoirs. The reservoirs, which are found within a resource area that covers 311,000 square miles, contain an estimated 466 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of gas-in-place. Two broad research goals have been defined: (1) to reduce the uncertainty of the reservoir production potential, and (2) to improve the extraction technology. These goals are being pursued by conducting research and encouraging industrial efforts to develop the necessary technology. The focus of the research for the last several years has been on improving diagnostic instrumentation for reservoir and stimulation performance evaluation, geophysical and engineering interpretation, and stimulation techniques. Integrated geologic studies of three depositional basins that contain tight lenticular sandstone units have also been pursued as part of this new effort. These lenticular sands were selected by DOE as priority research targets because of the size of the resource potential and the many technical and economic questions blocking industry development. 9 refs., 10 figs., 3 tabs.

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Site visit report:  Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Company Riverside Generating Station, Bettendorf, Iowa. Final report

This report details the activities, facilities, and equipment used to sample raw feedstock and waste solids at the Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Company's Riverside Plant. Explanation of sampling locations, deviations from the test plan, sampling techniques (in accordance with the Fossil Energy Waste General Sampling Guideline), and plant design are reviewed. Versar Inc.'s responsibility in this report involves the sampling, containerization, labeling, and distribution of samples. Distribution of samples was coordinated through the Versar Office in Springfield, Virginia; therefore, no detailed description of distribution procedures is given in this document.

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Improvement of CO2 Flood Performance

This research program is designed to improve oil recovery through carbon dioxide (CO{sub 2}) flooding. The program is composed of two main areas: Displacements of Pure and Impure CO{sub 2}, and CO{sub 2} Mobility Control and Flow Heterogeneities. In Task Area I, work continued on assembling a comprehensive viscosity/density/composition database on CO{sub 2}/crude oil, CO{sub 2}synthetic oil, and lean gas/crude oil systems. A new procedure for estimating CO{sub 2}/crude oil viscosities applicable to both single-phase and equilibrium vapor- and liquid-phase mixtures from a single, internally consistent equation was developed using the database. A series of coreflood displacements concerning the effect of solution gas and free gas on the development of miscibility, using synthetic as well as crude oils, have been completed. Preliminary results from experiments using the new foam/coreflood apparatus to investigate flow through fractured rock systems are presented. Results were matched with the newly developed foam simulator. Foam mechanistic studies using glass micromodels at reservoir conditions have been conducted to compare the performances of SAG and WAG displacements as well as pregenerated vs. in-situ generated foams. Task II consists of research concerned with the reduced efficiency of floods caused by nonuniformity of flow in reservoirs. Research includes three separate areas: the mathematical description of rock heterogeneity, using the relatively new field of geostatistics, with special emphasis on the correlation of geostatistical parameters with calculated sweep efficiency; the history of tracer production from a well, as calculated from simulated displacements in synthetic random fields; and the measurement of small-scale heterogeneities in laboratory samples of reservoir rock, with an evaluation of their effect on flood results and scaling to the field. 149 refs., 121 figs., 24 tabs.

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Reservoir characterization and modeling analysis of the Coastal Yellow Zone at the Multiwell Experiment: Technical note

Reservoir modeling efforts at the Morgantown Energy Technology Center include the analysis of well test data measured at the United States Department of Energy's Multiwell Experiment. The data analysis is designed to characterize low-permeability, lenticular gas sands; assess the effects of various wellbore stimulation techniques; and provide predictive capabilities in the area of natural gas production from unconventional reservoirs. Data recorded during extensive testing of a part of the stratigraphic section designated as the Coastal Zone have been analyzed to determine a set of parameters that describe the reservoir and provide an indication of the type of flow mechanism that is active in the sand. Portions of the test data were interpreted by analytical methods to yield a permeability-thickness product of 0.67 millidarcy-feet for the zone. This value is similar to the permeability-thickness product derived from reservoir model history matching, which is 0.51 millidarcy-feet. The effects on well productivity caused by two different stimulation treatments were also evaluated. Results suggest that model-derived effective fracture half-lengths are shorter than design lengths and that induced fracture and natural fracture damage occurs from gelling agents. 11 refs., 22 figs., 2 tabs.

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Coalbed Methane - Technology Status Report

Coalbed methane research focuses on (1) estimating the extent of the resource with increased accuracy and reliability, (2) estimating the amount of coalbed methane that is recoverable, and (3) providing technically and economically viable means for methane recovery. The goal is to promote extensive private and public use of the resource as a national energy source. DOE has made significant progress in developing new knowledge, including the following accomplishments: Over 90 well sites have been logged, and over 350 core samples have been taken from these sites for desorption and proximate and ultimate analysis tests to provide insight into gas release mechanisms for various coal ranks. A comprehensive geological assessment was made to estimate the gas-in-place for 16 basins. Twenty production tests were completed to develop guidelines for recovery concepts in different geologic environments. While the project has made significant progress, the development of coalbed methane as a contributing source to the US gas supply has not been widespread. The mixing of unconventional gas with conventional natural gas has been investigated for use by residential, municipal, commercial, and industrial customers in space heating, coal drying, and onsite power generation. However, the risks and economics associated with recovery concepts in basins other than the Warrior basin sre still lacking. 5 refs., 11 figs.

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