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Combustion Utilization of High-Chlorine Coal: Current Status and Future Prospects

Author

Listed:
  • Kang Hong

    (School of Electrical Engineering, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
    Department of Energy and Power Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China)

  • Tuo Zhou

    (Department of Energy and Power Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China)

  • Man Zhang

    (Department of Energy and Power Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China)

  • Yuyang Zeng

    (School of Energy and Power Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China)

  • Weicheng Li

    (Dongfang Boiler Co., Ltd., Dongfang Electric Group, Zigong 643099, China)

  • Hairui Yang

    (School of Electrical Engineering, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China)

Abstract

Under China’s “dual carbon” goals (carbon peaking and carbon neutrality), the utilization of high-chlorine coal faces significant challenges due to its abundant reserves in regions such as Xinjiang and its notable environmental impacts. This study systematically investigates the combustion characteristics, environmental risks, and control strategies for high-chlorine coal. Key findings reveal that chlorine release occurs in three distinct stages, namely low-temperature desorption, medium-temperature organic bond cleavage, and high-temperature inorganic decomposition, with release kinetics governed by coal metamorphism and the reaction atmosphere. Chlorine synergistically enhances mercury oxidation through low-activation-energy pathways but exacerbates boiler corrosion via chloride–sulfate interactions. Advanced control technologies—such as water washing, calcium-based sorbents, and integrated pyrolysis–gasification systems—demonstrate substantial emission reductions. However, challenges remain in addressing high-temperature corrosion and optimizing multi-pollutant synergistic control. This study provides critical insights into the clean utilization of high-chlorine coal, supporting sustainable energy transitions.

Suggested Citation

  • Kang Hong & Tuo Zhou & Man Zhang & Yuyang Zeng & Weicheng Li & Hairui Yang, 2025. "Combustion Utilization of High-Chlorine Coal: Current Status and Future Prospects," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(12), pages 1-19, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:12:p:3011-:d:1673232
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Liu, Yacheng & Fan, Weidong & Guo, Hao, 2020. "A calculation model for the overall process of high temperature corrosion mechanism induced by firing coal with high chlorine and sodium content," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 205(C).
    2. Hui Fan & Menglin Ren & Caiyun Feng & Yue Jiao & Yonghui Bai & Qingxiang Ma, 2022. "Pyrolysis Characteristics of Hailar Lignite in the Presence of Polyvinyl Chloride: Products Distribution and Chlorine Migration," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(9), pages 1-12, May.
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    4. Qiang Lyu & Chang’an Wang & Xuan Liu & Defu Che, 2022. "Numerical Study on the Homogeneous Reactions of Mercury in a 600 MW Coal-Fired Utility Boiler," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(2), pages 1-16, January.
    5. Maximilian von Bohnstein & Coskun Yildiz & Lorenz Frigge & Jochen Ströhle & Bernd Epple, 2020. "Simulation Study of the Formation of Corrosive Gases in Coal Combustion in an Entrained Flow Reactor," Energies, MDPI, vol. 13(17), pages 1-24, September.
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