Modeling and Control of Energy Conversion during Underground Coal Gasification Process

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue focuses on the energy conversion processes in the underground coal gasification (UCG) and also on the modeling and control of this process. UCG technology is an unconventional method of coal mining, and its approaches represent new scientific knowledge. This continually evolving technology is a large energy source that can be obtained at a lower cost than convection mining and is also safer. The UCG process transforms the coal's energy into the gas produced (i.e., syngas). For successful energy conversion, i.e., obtaining the syngas with a higher calorific value, it is essential to develop new modeling methods and control this process. Modeling methods will make it possible to identify the individual stages of the UCG process more precisely and, thus, improve the knowledge of this process. Recently, various UCG models, e.g., models based on CFD, machine models for syngas composition, or temperature prediction, were investigated. By synthesizing suitable algorithms and mathematical models, it is possible to obtain simulation models of the process. These simulation models can be used to design the control systems and the optimal setting of process parameters. In the control of UCG, the significant issue is to ensure sufficient underground temperature and the calorific value of syngas. This issue can be solved by advanced control methods and optimization of operating variables. The UCG is associated with many underground uncertainties and adverse environmental impacts. More detailed geological surveys can partially reduce these issues, but this does not guarantee their complete elimination. Anticipating the risk of, e.g., explosion or poisoning by synthesis gas is possible by measuring the composition of the gas or by models.

The results of various research and experiments in this field around the world are currently being analyzed and may be included in this Special Issue of Energies.

Dr. Marek Laciak
Dr. Ján Kačur
Dr. Milan Durdán
Guest Editors

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