Question

The proces of production of syngas from sewage, \mathrm{\\{} A w - d u s t , ~ s c r a p ~ w o o d , ~ e t c . ~ i s ~ q u i t e ~ c o m m o n ~ t h e s e ~ days. The production of syngas from coal is called (a) carbonination (b) water gas shift (c) coal gasification (d) synthesis gas shift.

Short answer

The production of syngas from coal is called (c) coal gasification.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Correct Terminology

To solve this exercise, we need to identify the correct term used for the production of syngas from coal. Syngas, short for synthesis gas, is typically comprised of a mixture of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and some carbon dioxide and is derived from the gasification of a carbon-containing fuel to a gaseous product with some calorific value. The terms listed in the options refer to different processes related to coal and its byproducts, or related to the creation or alteration of syngas.

Eliminate Incorrect Options

Carbonization refers to the process of converting an organic substance into carbon or a carbon-containing residue through pyrolysis. Water gas shift is a reaction that adjusts the CO and H2 composition of syngas. Synthesis gas shift is not a standard term in this context.

Select the Appropriate Option

The correct term for producing syngas from coal is 'coal gasification,' which involves converting coal into syngas, a process that can be used for power generation, as a chemical feedstock, or as a precursor to fuels.

Key concepts

Syngas Production

Syngas, short for synthesis gas, is an essential fuel and chemical production component. It's primarily composed of hydrogen (H2), carbon monoxide (CO), and often contains some carbon dioxide (CO2). Its production is a critical first step in converting solid or liquid carbon-based materials into a combustible gas. One common method for producing syngas is through coal gasification, where coal reacts with oxygen and steam at high temperatures. This results in the breakdown of coal's complex organic molecules, creating a mixture that can be further processed into fuels, fertilizers, or used directly for power generation.

The gasification process is versatile, allowing for the use of different feedstocks beyond coal, such as biomass or waste materials. Syngas produced from these alternative sources is gaining attention as a way to create renewable energy and reduce waste. Understanding the efficient production of syngas is crucial, as it determines the feasibility and sustainability of the conversion process.

Chemical Feedstock

Using syngas as a chemical feedstock is a cornerstone of the modern chemical industry. This versatile mix of gases can be transformed into a wide range of chemicals and fuels through various chemical processes. As a feedstock, syngas serves as the foundational building block for methanol production and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, which can create longer-chain hydrocarbons like diesel.

Industries rely on syngas for the synthesis of ammonia for fertilizers, and it's also integral in the production of hydrogen. The hydrogen economy, which suggests replacing fossil fuels with hydrogen as a cleaner energy source, largely depends on syngas as a critical intermediate in hydrogen production. Syngas's role in the chemical industry emphasizes not only its versatility but also how its clean and efficient production can lead to more sustainable industrial processes.

Carbonization

Carbonization is a thermochemical process where organic materials, like coal or biomass, are transformed into carbon or carbon-rich residues. This occurs through pyrolysis, which involves heating material in the absence of oxygen, preventing combustion. As a result, carbonization leads to the production of charcoal, coke, or carbon fibers, depending on the material and conditions used.

The process is distinct from gasification and does not directly produce syngas. However, understanding carbonization is vital for comprehending the broader scope of how we unlock the potential of carbonaceous materials. Developing efficient carbonization techniques can lead to better material properties for industrial applications such as metallurgy, water filtration, and energy storage.

Water Gas Shift Reaction

The water gas shift reaction is a crucial stage in refining syngas to the desired composition of hydrogen and carbon monoxide. In this chemical reaction, carbon monoxide reacts with water vapor to produce carbon dioxide and more hydrogen. The reaction is typically represented by the equation:
\[ CO + H2O \rightarrow CO2 + H2 \]
By manipulating the water gas shift reaction, one can adjust the H2 to CO ratio in syngas, tailoring it for different uses such as hydrogen production or as a more hydrogen-rich chemical feedstock. The reaction is exothermic, releasing heat, which can affect the operation of industrial reactors. Therefore, controlling the temperature and reaction rate is key to optimizing syngas production and its subsequent applications.