Integration and Operation of Pilot Plants in a Commercial Gasification Facility

Eastman Chemical Company has operated a coal gasification facility in Kingsport, TN, for over 27 years. However, until recently, Eastman did not have the ability to use its commercially derived syngas to test alternate processes, sorbents or catalysts. In partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE) and others, Eastman has installed a number of pilot plants that can use commercial syngas as their feedstock. This paper will discuss the challenges faced with the integration and operation of these R&D units in a commercial gasification facility.