Abstract 556 Cha Microwave-Induced Coal Gasification for Production of Activated Coke and Synthesis Gas The project's overall objective is to perform exploratory research that supports industry for the development of an advanced coal gasification process that utilizes Wyoming natural resources and also to establish faculty and student exchange programs with the industry. To achieve these program objectives, the program consists of two tasks. Task 1 covers fundamental research to investigate microwave-induced reactions involved in coal gasification. Task 2 provides activities to establish a cooperative research and a co-op program for undergraduate and graduate students with the DOW Chemical Company and the FMC Corporation. The experimental results obtained from Task 1, exploratory research, will assist the industry in developing a simple, clean, and economic process for the removal of NOx, SOx, and other pollutants from the flue gas. Successful development of a microwave-induced coal gasification process will significantly reduce the price of activated coke, and will eventually lead to reducing the overall cost of pollution control. An efficient, economic, and environmentally-friendly process for the production of activated coke will improve the economy of Wyoming along with an increase in employment in Wyoming. Task 2 will offer three undergraduate students and one graduate student practical training and industrial experience that will assist them in their search for permanent employment after graduation. An ongoing joint research program among the University of Wyoming, DOW, and FMC will also result.
