Polish scientists carry out experimental conversion of coal into gas

Polish scientists managed to convert coal into gas in successful experiments, which can be used for energy production, local media reported on Wednesday.

It gives hope to the Polish mining industry, which emits too much CO2 and requires new technologies to explore coal layers which are most hard to reach.

The underground coal gasification experiment was being run from the end of June in a mine in the Polish town of Katowice.

It consists of the conversion of coal into gas, which can be used to produce energy on the surface, therefore making coal extraction more environmentally friendly.

It also contributes to economical situation of mines and can be successfully used in areas where extraction is difficult or where the coal remnants are still remaining.

Underground coal gasification consists of putting the so-called gasifying agent, e.g. air or steam, into and ignited coal deposit, collecting the obtained gas and sending it to the surface.

The most crucial element is the skillful control over the gasifying agent, which amount can determine the specific components of the gas.