Sorbents for Warm Temperature Removal of Arsenic and Phosphorous from Coal-Derived Synthesis Gas

Gasification converts coal and other heavy feed stocks into synthesis gas feed streams that can be used as a fuel for highly efficient power generation cycles. However, coal-derived synthesis gas contains a myriad of contaminants (e.g. arsenic, phosphorous, sulfur) that not only may be regulated in power plant emissions but also act as poisons for the catalysts used in downstream chemical manufacturing processes. This project will develop a low-cost, high capacity, sorbent that can remove trace contaminants, including arsenic, phosphorous, and sulfur, as well as other trace metals (mercury, selenium and cadmium) from coal-derived synthesis gas. The sorbent will reduce the concentration of all these contaminants to ppbv levels, protecting the SOFC electro-catalyst. Unlike commercially available physical adsorbents used for trace metal removal, the new sorbent will operate at the exit temperature of the warm gas clean-up step (250oC). Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardeeThe use of coal-derived synthesis gas in advanced power cycles and its conversion into chemical intermediates and transportation fuels are emerging markets. The sorbent-based contaminant removal system should find use in commercial-scale coal-to-liquid plants. As the industry develops, much larger quantities of the sorbent would be needed in fuel cell power generation plants