Title: Generating electricity from coal in situ

Abstract: The system of the invention comprises a two well system of gasifying coal in situ wherein the generated gas stream is directed to a gas separator, which, in turn separates hydrogen and carbon monoxide into separate streams. Hydrogen is directed to one type of fuel cell and carbon dioxide is directed to another with the resultant generation of electricity. The method of the invention comprises establishing two wells into an underground coal deposit with a reaction zone in fluid communication with the wells. Coal is gasified both in oxidizing and reducing environments, with the produced gas stream separated into its component parts. Combustible gases are directed to fuel cells with the resultant generation of electricity.

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Inventors: Terry, Ruel C. (Denver, CO, US)

Application Number: 101869
Filing Date: 1979-12-10
Publication_date: 1981-02-10
Assignee: In Situ Technology, Inc. (Denver, CO)
Primary Class(es): 429/12 166/65.1, 166/261, 166/266
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

3278335	Oct, 1966	Hitzman	429/13.
3775073	Nov, 1973	Rhoades	166/257.
4041210	Aug, 1977	Van Dine	429/12.
4063416	Dec, 1977	Cooper	166/257.
4080791	Mar, 1978	Nadler et al.	429/12.
4114688	Sep, 1978	Terry	166/261.
4185692	Jan, 1980	Terry	166/261.

Other Refs:
Primary Examiner: LeFevour, Charles F.
Assistant Examiner:
Attorney: