Kaasuunmuutos

Kaasuunmuutos, also known as gasification, is a thermochemical process that converts carbonaceous materials into a synthesis gas (syngas) composed primarily of hydrogen and carbon monoxide. This transformation occurs at high temperatures, typically between 700 and 1600 degrees Celsius, in a low-oxygen environment. The feedstock for gasification can include a wide variety of materials such as coal, biomass, municipal solid waste, and industrial byproducts.

The process involves several stages. First, drying removes moisture from the feedstock. Then, pyrolysis occurs, where the material is heated in the absence of oxygen, breaking down into volatile gases and char. Subsequently, the char and volatile gases react with a controlled amount of gasifying agent, such as steam, oxygen, or air, to produce the syngas. The composition of the syngas can be adjusted by varying the gasifying agent and operating conditions.

Syngas is a versatile intermediate product. It can be directly combusted to produce heat and power, or it can be further processed through synthesis reactions to create valuable chemicals, liquid fuels like methanol and synthetic gasoline, or hydrogen. Gasification offers an alternative to traditional combustion, potentially leading to more efficient energy conversion and reduced emissions, especially when dealing with complex or mixed feedstocks. It is also seen as a method for waste management, diverting materials from landfills.