An update of german non-isothermal coal pyrolysis work

Pyrolysis is an essential and inseparable process in all aspects of coal conversion and utilization, the most common product of coal pyrolysis being coke. It is part of combustion and plays an important role in coal gasification and liquefaction. Over the last fifteen years Bergbau-Forschung GmbH has sponsored research in the basic processes and fundamentals of pyrolysis to optimize the properties and/or yield of the coke, gas and liquids produced. The work is summarized and the theoretical framework used for the analysis is described. Results with heating rates from degrees per day to degrees per micro second in inert and reactive gases are presented. Emphasis is placed on the kinetics of gas formation. Further work in the area of pressurized pyrolysis is planned.