Kaasutusprosesseissa

Kaasutusprosesseissa, or gasification processes, are thermochemical treatments that convert carbon-containing materials into a synthesis gas, commonly known as syngas. This syngas is primarily composed of hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO), with smaller amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrogen (N2). The feedstock for gasification can be diverse, including fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, as well as biomass such as wood, agricultural waste, and municipal solid waste.

The core principle of gasification involves reacting the feedstock with a controlled amount of a gasifying agent at high temperatures, typically ranging from 700 to 1500 degrees Celsius. Common gasifying agents include steam, oxygen, or air. Unlike combustion, which aims for complete oxidation to produce heat, gasification is a partial oxidation process designed to maximize the production of combustible gases. The absence of sufficient oxygen prevents complete burning, instead favoring the formation of H2 and CO.

The resulting syngas is a versatile intermediate product. It can be used directly as a fuel for power generation, either in gas turbines or boilers. Alternatively, syngas can serve as a feedstock for producing various chemicals, including methanol, ammonia, and synthetic fuels through processes like the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. Gasification is considered a cleaner alternative to direct combustion for many feedstocks, as it allows for the removal of pollutants from the syngas before its final use. This technology plays a role in waste-to-energy initiatives and the production of cleaner fuels.