Sequential low-temperature depolymerization and liquefaction of US coals

Results obtained in the studies with BS(IL) coal as feed can be summarized as follows: (1) The low-temperature depolymerization - liquefaction procedure, summarized in Figure 1, is easily adaptable and applicable to a high-sulfur, Burning Star (Illinois No. 6) coal sample. The final product obtained consists of a fully desulfurized, light hydrocarbon oil. (2)Suitable processing conditions for each step of the stepwise depolymerization - liquefaction of the above coal were determined. (3)Direct hydroprocessing of the Burning Star (Illinois No. 6) coal with sulfided catalysts is ineffective for its conversion into a light hydrocarbon product. In accordance with the research program the depolymerized, THF-soluble coal products will be subjected to detailed analysis for the purpose of deriving average molecular structures for the oil, asphaltene and asphaltol fractions. The data obtained will be used to develop a structural model for the BS(IL) coal.