Reactor systems for microbial desulfurization of coal: An overview

Abstract

Precombustion microbial desulfurization of coal has significant advantages over physicochemical processes. Its application on a large scale is still in its infancy. The cost‐effectiveness of microbial coal desulfurization is dependent on the type of reactor system used. The technico‐economic feasibilities of various bioreactor systems, such as packed‐bed reactors, agitated aerated bioreactors, airlift recycle bioreactors, plug‐flow bioreactors, and continuous stirred‐tank reactors have been reviewed extensively. Few processes are also suggested for effective desulfurization of coal.

Key words:

• coal
• microbial desulfurization
• bioreactors