Theoretical Methodology of a High-Flux Coal-Direct Chemical Looping Combustion System

Abstract

This study, as an extension of our previous experimental tests, presented a mechanism analysis of air reactor (AR) coupling in a high-flux coal-direct chemical looping combustion (CDCLC) system and provided a theoretical methodology to the system optimal design with favorable operation stability and low gas leakages. Firstly, it exhibited the dipleg flow diagrams of the CDCLC system and concluded the feasible gas–solid flow states for solid circulation and gas leakage control. On this basis, the semi-theoretical formulas of gas leakages were proposed to predict the optimal regions of the pressure gradients of the AR. Meanwhile, an empirical formula of critical sealing was also developed to identify the advent of circulation collapse so as to ensure the operation stability of the whole system. Furthermore, the theoretical methodology was applied in the condition design of the cold system. The favorable gas–solid flow behaviors together with the good control of gas leakages demonstrated the feasibility of the theoretical methodology. Finally, the theoretical methodology was adopted to carry out a capability assessment of the high-flux CDCLC system under a hot state in terms of the restraint of gas leakages and the stability of solid circulation.