Christopher W. Kuehler

The Chevron coal liquefaction process (CCLP)

Abstract For a number of years, work has been carried out at Chevron Research Company directed at development of a new approach to coal liquefaction. The processing sequence uses two separate, but close-coupled, reaction zones. The first is used to contain and control dissolution reactions; the second contains and controls hydrofining reactions. Each is designed to maximize efficiency for achieving its particular function, as well as to allow control of product distribution and quality. The basic process, which can be considered ‘second generation’ relative to other coal liquefaction processes under development today, is called the Chevron Coal Liquefaction Process (CCLP). This process and its variants have been studied in integrated laboratory-scale pilot plants with capacities of 4.5—22.5 kg (coal) day −1. A 6 t day−1 pilot plant is under construction in Chevron USAs Richmond, California, refinery to demonstrate larger-scale process and mechanical performances.