How is pulverized coal used in the combustion process?

Pulverized coal plays a crucial role in the combustion process, primarily because it is burned in suspension. This means that the fine particles of coal are dispersed in a stream of air and ignited, allowing for much more efficient combustion. When coal is pulverized, its surface area increases significantly, which promotes quicker and more complete burning compared to larger chunks of coal. This increased efficiency results in better energy output and a reduction in emissions, as finer particles can burn at lower temperatures and with more uniformity.

The process of burning coal in suspension maximizes the fuel-air contact, enhancing heat generation and minimizing unburned particles. This method is preferred in modern steam generation systems, particularly in power plants. In contrast, mixing coal with water or compacting it does not utilize the coal for combustion as effectively, and burning it in solid form does not achieve the same level of efficiency due to the slower combustion rate and the larger size of the particles.