Desulphurization of high-sulphur coals of north-east Indian coalfields by organometallic compounds

This paper describes a new approach towards desulphurizing high-sulphur coals at normal atmospheric pressure and at elevated pressures. Using sodium compounds of both straight chain and aromatic alcohols, a reasonable rate of organic sulphur removal was achieved. Pyritic and sulphate sulphur were removed to the extent of 90% or more in almost all cases. Treatment time is also relatively small. The consequent changes in caking index, calorific value and softening point are also discussed. The dependence of the extent of sulphur removal on particle size of coal has also been studied. The economics of the process may be attractive as most of the spent solvent can be regenerated.