Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle

An integrated gasification combined cycle, or IGCC, is a technology that uses a high-pressure gasifier to turn coal and other carbon-based fuels into pressurized synthesis gas, allowing impurities to be removed from the fuel before electricity is generated and reducing emissions of sulfur dioxide, particulates, mercury and carbon dioxide. Harmful byproducts such as sulfur are converted into reusable materials through specialized chemical processes, and additional equipment can convert carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide through water-gas shift reactions, allowing for carbon capture and improved efficiency. Excess heat from combustion is channeled to a steam cycle to generate supplementary electricity, giving IGCC improved thermodynamic efficiency compared with conventional pulverized coal combustion.