Houston Industries Incorporated

Reliant Energy Incorporated

O C Karkalits

Donald L Wise

William Meredith Menger

Ernest E Kern

Alfred P Leuschner

Hans E Grethlein

David Odelson

Kermit Allen

Lignite is treated with ligninase source to enhance its reactivity. In one embodiment, lignite is gasified in a subterranean reactor by simultaneous digestion by anaerobic ligninase producers, such as termite microflora, and acid formers and methanogens. In another embodiment, the lignite is treated with ligninase prior to digestion by the acid formers and methanogens. If desired, the lignite may be pretreated by alkaline hydrolysis.

Microbial process for producing methane from coal

A method for carrying out a biochemical reaction with a culture of microorganisms is performed in a cavity formed in a subterranean formation to produce combustible hydrocarbon gases. The method is especially suitable for the conversion of alkali-oxidized or hydrolyzed coal, such as lignite, to methane. The method may be performed in the cavity as a continuously stirred tank reaction, or plug flow or as a staged reaction. The method may also be done as an anaerobic fixed film process using particles as an anaerobic filter, as a sludge blanket, or as an expanded bed process.

Biochemically reacting substrates in subterranean cavities

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Lake Charles, LA, United States of America

O C Karkalits