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By: Sunidhi Rajput
Sunidhi Rajput, Student, Electronics & Communication, Sir Chhotu Ram Institute of Engineering & Technology, C.C.S University Campus, UttarPradesh
Ventilation Air Methane (VAM), a byproduct of underground coal mining, is a significant source of methane emissions and a potential energy resource. VAM is typically released at low concentrations, ranging from 0.1% to 1.5%, making it challenging to capture and utilize effectively. This article explores methane enrichment technologies, focusing on the weak eddy and free diffusion methods to increase VAM concentrations. These techniques have shown promise in enhancing methane capture efficiency, providing a pathway to reduce the environmental impact of coal mining while generating energy. The study reviews various recovery technologies, including thermal flow-reversal reactors (TFRR) and hydrate crystallization, both of which have been used globally to mitigate VAM emissions and recover energy. TFRR, in particular, has been demonstrated to convert VAM into usable energy, with projects successfully implemented in the U.S., China, and Australia. The article also examines the potential for VAM utilization in Turkey, specifically in the Kozlu coal mine, which has high methane emissions. A preliminary economic analysis suggests that with the support of carbon credits, these technologies could become economically viable.Global practices in VAM mitigation and utilization have shown that significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are possible, and the recovered methane can be used to generate electricity. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of creating supportive policies and infrastructure in countries like Turkey to unlock the economic and environmental benefits of VAM recovery technologies.
Citation:
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