Feasibility studies of in situ gasification of Alabama lignite

A study was made of the technical and economic feasibility of in situ gasification of the lignite located in south central Alabama. Geologic studies show extensive lignite deposits, but much of the data required for determining the technical feasibility of in situ gasification is lacking. There are inadequate data on the depth and thickness of deposits, the nature of the overburden, and the hydrology in the vicinity of the lignite seams. Candidate regions for further study were located should further consideration be given to in situ gasification. A second part of the study addressed potential uses of low-Btu gas produced by in situ gasification, assuming technical feasibility. Consideration was given to municipally managed distribution of the gas to consumers, use of the gas in large power plants, and use of the gas in agricultural and industrial processes. The low-Btu gas could not be transported economically for long distances. The low population density and the small number of potential applications in the area does not give a large market for the gas. None of the alternatives considered was financially attractive. Because of the large amount of field work required to develop fields for in situ gasification, and because of the lackmore » of financial incentives, the authors concluded that in situ gasification of Alabama lignite should not be pursued at this time.« less