"Coal Liquefaction and Electric Power Generation"

Direct coal liquefaction can become a viable fuel source for electric power generation. Prospects of the use of coal liquids as boiler and gas-turbine fuels are discussed. The three major liquefaction processes are briefly described and the state of the art of the use of coal liquids as boiler and gas turbine fuels is reviewed. Most of the coal liquids can be used directly as boiler fuels without further upgrading, while some heavier liquids would require mild hydroprocessing. Gas turbines require cleaner liquids, which can only be generated by severe hydroprocessing of distillate coal liquids. Most coal liquids with proper processing can meet the fuel specifications of turbine and boiler manufacturers and meet or exceed the environmental requirements. However, more studies in large scale plants are needed before coal liquids can be fully commercialized.