coaldistillation

Coaldistillation refers to the process of heating coal in the absence of air to break it down into a variety of gaseous, liquid, and solid products. This process, also known as destructive distillation or carbonization, is a fundamental method for extracting valuable components from coal. The primary products of coaldistillation are coke, coal tar, ammonia liquor, and coal gas.

Coke is a solid, porous residue that is primarily carbon. It is a crucial fuel and reducing agent in the iron and steel industry, as well as in other metallurgical processes. Coal tar is a complex mixture of organic compounds, many of which are aromatic hydrocarbons. It serves as a source for a wide range of chemicals used in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and other materials. Ammonia liquor, also known as ammoniacal liquor, is an aqueous solution containing ammonia and other soluble organic compounds. It is a source of ammonia, which can be used in fertilizers and other industrial applications. Coal gas is a mixture of combustible gases, including hydrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide, which can be used as a fuel.

Historically, coaldistillation was the primary method for producing town gas for lighting and heating. While its role in gas production has diminished with the advent of natural gas, the production of coke and the recovery of valuable chemicals from coal tar remain significant industrial processes. The specific yields and composition of the products depend on factors such as the type of coal used and the distillation temperature and duration.