The role of sulphur in coal hydroliquefaction Martin J. Trewhella and Alan Grint
BP Research Centre, Chertsey Road, Sunbury on Thames, Middlesex, TW16 7LN, UK
We all know that sulfur is an element commonly associated with coal, and can be a troublesome component of coal plant emissions. But, if we're willing to put the effort into it, sulfur can be reclaimed from flue gas emissions, and it does have commercial value. As it happens, though, as we move towards an economy fueled, at least in part, by liquids derived from coal, we might benefit from the fact that our coal often does contain sulfur. According to this study, from the United Kingdom, the presence of sulfur improves the efficiency and the productivity of some coal-to-liquid conversion processes.
The excerpt:
"Abstract
The effects on coal hydroliquefaction of organic and pyritic sulphur, and of H2S formed from the reductive decomposition of these compounds, are reviewed. Under suitable conditions, all are shown to exert beneficial effects on both product yields and quality. The reasons for the effectiveness of each of these sulphur compounds are discussed."
In other words, as we understand this, when sulfur compounds are present in coal being liquefied, more and better liquid fuels are produced.