Kaasutuksessa

Kaasutuksessa is a Finnish term referring to the process of gasification. Gasification is a thermochemical process that converts organic or carbon-containing materials into a combustible gas known as synthesis gas or syngas. This gas is primarily composed of hydrogen (H2), carbon monoxide (CO), and a small amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4). The input materials for gasification can include a wide range of substances, such as coal, biomass, municipal solid waste, and plastics.

The gasification process typically occurs at high temperatures, usually between 700 and 1600 degrees Celsius, in an oxygen-deficient environment. This controlled atmosphere prevents complete combustion, instead promoting the breakdown of the feedstock into simpler gaseous molecules. Various types of gasifiers exist, including fixed-bed, fluidized-bed, and entrained-flow gasifiers, each suited for different types of feedstock and operational scales. The specific design influences the efficiency and output of the syngas.

The produced syngas can be utilized in several ways. It can be burned directly for heat or power generation, often in gas turbines or boilers. Alternatively, it can serve as a feedstock for producing a variety of chemicals and fuels through further processing, such as methanol, ammonia, or synthetic fuels via Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. Gasification is considered a cleaner alternative to direct combustion for some waste materials, as it can reduce pollutant emissions. It is also a key technology in the development of sustainable energy solutions and the circular economy.