Chapter 9, Problem 9.38P

Coke can be converted into CO—a fuel gas—in the reaction $C{O}_2\left(g\right)+C\left(s\right)\to 2CO\left(g\right)$

A coke that contains 84% carbon by mass and the balance noncombustible ash is fed to a reactor with a stoichiometric amount of CO₂. The coke is fed at 77°F, and the CO₂enters at 400°F. Heat is transferred to the reactor in the amount of 5859 Btu/Ib_mcoke fed. The gaseous products and the solid reactor effluent (the ash and unburned carbon) leave the reactor at 183O°F. The heat capacity of the solid is 0.24Btu/(Ib_m·°F).

1. Calculate the percentage conversion of the carbon in the coke.

The carbon monoxide produced in this manner can be used as a fuel for residential home heating, as can the coke. Speculate on the advantages and disadvantages of using the gas. (There are several of each.)