Petroleum coke is a solid, carbon-rich fuel derived from the processing of petroleum. It is produced by heating petroleum residues at high temperatures, typically in the range of 500-600°C, until all the volatile components are driven off. The resulting coke has a high carbon content, typically ranging from 85% to 90%, and is often used as a raw material for the production of graphite electrodes and anodes.
Petroleum coke has several important properties that make it an attractive fuel for various applications. One of its main advantages is its high energy density, which makes it ideal for use in power plants, steelmaking processes, and cement kilns. Additionally, petroleum coke burns relatively cleanly compared to other carbon-based fuels, producing minimal emissions of nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide.
Despite its advantages, petroleum coke also has some disadvantages. One of the main concerns is its potential impact on global warming, as the production of coke involves the release of large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Furthermore, the transportation and handling of coke can be challenging due to its brittle nature and high melting point.