EVALUATION OF COAL CONVERSION BY SWELLING MEASUREMENT

This paper makes an attempt to interrelate the volumetric swelling ratio of a coal with their yields in conversion products obtained by hydroliquefaction. This work analyzes the swelling behaviour in pyridine of the residues from mild, catalytic and dry hydroliquefaction at increasing severity conditions as a tool for knowing a little more about hydrogenation mechanisms. It is carried out with two different rank coals and their corresponding chloroform-extracted residues at two temperatures and for various hydrogenation times. Solvent swelling measurements have been used to follow changes in crosslinking density due to hydrogenation. The volumetric swelling ratio is a sensitive, fast, helpful and not complex measurement. However, complementary information is required for structural conclusions. © 1990.