PROCESS CUTS METHANATION COST

Methanation/shift to methane from coal gasification is most economically accomplished with the Liquid-Phase Methanation/Shift (LPM/S) process currently being developed under ERDA/AGA sponsorship. Savings in the order of 6 to 25 cent /MMBtu's are possible compared with other combinations of processing. The variation in savings depends upon the ratio of hydrogen to carbon monoxide in the coal gasifier synthesis gas and the financing approach employed by the company. Details of the process are given along with its advantages. It is demonstrated that combined methanation and shift conversion (in one common reactor) of synthesis gas from coal gasification products saves water and helps control exothermic reaction heat. Economic consideration are included. 3fs.