Question

What is a syngas ?
1. It is a gas mixture of CO, H₂, CO₂ and N₂
2. It is a gas mixture of CH₄, O₂ and CO 
3. It is a gas mixture of CH₄, CO₂, N₂, H₂ and O₂
4. It is a gas mixture of H₂, and O₂

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 1 : It is a gas mixture of CO, H₂, CO₂ and N₂

The correct answer is It is a gas mixture of CO, H₂, CO₂ and N₂.

• 'Syngas' or 'synthesis gas' is a combination of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, small quantities of carbon dioxide, and other trace gases.
• Normally derived from feedstocks, Syngas contains carbon, such as biomass, natural gas, heavy oil, and coal.
• Syngas is produced as a result of the gasification of a carbon-containing fuel to a gaseous product that has heating value.
• Syngas has 50% of the energy density of natural gas and hence it can be burnt and used as a fuel source.
  • Refinement of syngas before use allows CO₂ to be stripped from the raw gas thereby enabling the use of CO₂ in enhanced oil recovery processes.

• Applications of Syngas
  • Steam for use in turbine drivers for electricity generation.
  • Nitrogen for use as pressurizing agents and fertilizers.
  • Ammonia for use as fertilizers and the production of plastics like polyurethane and nylon.
  • Methanol for the production of plastics, resins, pharmaceuticals, adhesives, paints, and also as a component of fuels.
  • Carbon monoxide for use in chemical industry feedstock and fuels.