Low-temperature metallurgical synthesis gas production technology: Study on product generation behaviour using bamboo shavings and bituminous coal as feedstocks

Abstract

In the context of the global energy transition, a crucial technological pathway is proposed that uses bamboo scraps (ZX) and bituminous coal (YM) as feedstocks, enhancing energy conversion efficiency through micro-carbonisation. This study systematically explores the potential for producing metallurgical synthesis gas (MSG) through micro-carbonisation under different ratios and temperature conditions. Using various characterisation techniques, including thermogravimetric analysis, gas chromatography, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), the gas release behaviour, structural evolution of solid products and energy characteristics during the micro-carbonisation process are revealed. The results indicate that the generation of MSG occurs in three stages: CO-dominated release, generation of CH₄ and C_nH_m and significant H₂ production, with no distinct boundaries between these stages and overlap occurring. Under ZX: YM = 7:3 and 500°C, the MSG achieved a maximum cumulative instantaneous lower heating value (LHV) of 144.9 MJ·m⁻³, with H₂ and CO as the major gas components. The temperature and raw material ratio significantly influence the gas composition, heating value and carbon content of the solid products. This study provides a theoretical foundation and process optimisation strategies for the synergistic energy utilisation of bamboo-based biomass and YM, providing a proof-of-concept basis and process insights for potential scale-up.