Numerical Simulation of the Temperature Distribution and Evolution Law of Underground Lignite Gasification

Abstract

To study the temperature distribution characteristics and evolution law of underground lignite gasifiers, a three-dimensional heat conduction model of underground lignite gasification was constructed. Moreover, the effects of different coal thicknesses, advance speeds of the flame working face, and surrounding rock types on the gasifier were analyzed. The results show that with the increase in the coal thickness, the transfer range and distance of temperature in the roof, floor, and coal seam gradually increase, as does the coal quantity in the three zones. The heat loss rate of the gasifier decreased gradually with the coal seam thickness. When the advance speed of the flame working face is 0.5 m/d, the ideal gasification coal thickness range of lignite is 2.5–17.5 m. With the increase in the gasification rate, the maximum transfer distance of temperature to the roof and floor, the average temperature of the gasifier, and the coal quantity of the three zones gradually increase. Conversely, the coal thickness corresponding to the intersection of the coal quantity of the oxidation and reduction zones and the heat loss rate of the gasifier gradually decrease. When the coal seam below 2.5 m is gasified, the gasification rate can be increased appropriately. When the coal seam is above 13 m, increasing the gasification rate will make the coal quantity in the oxidation zone close to or even higher than that in the reduction zone. Regarding the surrounding rock types comprising a combination of siltstone, mudstone, sandy mudstone, and fine sandstone, the most favorable roof and floor type for underground coal gasification is the combination of fine sandstone and sandy mudstone (without considering the sealing and mechanical properties). These results provide important theoretical support for the industrialization of underground coal gasification.

Critical review of methods for intensifying the gas generation process in the reaction channel during underground coal gasification (UCG)

“…On the other hand, a moderate amount of moisture absorbs heat during gasification, improving the energy efficiency of the process by enriching the gas with hydrogen and carbon monoxide. To reduce the negative moisture impact on the underground gasification process, a temporary decrease in the water level can be used [182]- [184].…”