| abstract |
Coal is restructured by extrusion into a tube like article that has a hollow core, which may contain igniter material to facilitate ignition of the coal. The hollow core and possibly other deformities, such as ribs, flutes or the like in the inner or outer walls of the tube-like article and/or slotted, circular or like openings through the tube wall artifically create an environment that enhances the burning characteristics in a relatively open or uncontrolled environment that is ordinarily hostile to the burning of coal. The article may be burned according to a novel process that creates coke. |