Semester

Fall

Date of Graduation

2000

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

Department

Chemical and Biomedical Engineering

Committee Chair

John W. Zondlo.

Abstract

Processes for coal conversion are being evaluated for the development of carbon-product precursors. In the present work, coal hydrogenation is being considered as a procedure for tailoring the properties of the precursors for specific carbon products. The object of this project is to assess and evaluate such coal-derived materials for use as precursors for the production of carbon products. Coal liquefaction samples are made under various processing conditions, e.g. temperature, pressure, solvent. Softening points, ash content and coking values of the samples are determined at WVU by ASTM methods. These samples were also examined for coke microstructure and mesophase formation. The asphaltene fraction is an especially attractive precursor and its properties can be tailored by varying the hydrogenation conditions. In general, there is a difference in behavior between products derived exclusively from coal (coal and coal-derived solvent) and those generated from a combination of coal and petroleum oil when materials are produced and compared at the same conditions.

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