The thermal plasma process for converting coal to acetylene in one-step opens up a direct means for green

clean and efficient utilization of coal

which has potential to substitute the conventional calcium carbide method for acetylene production. Based on the research and development on pilot-scale (ie

2 MW & 5 MW) plasma reactors for coal pyrolysis

fundamental understanding and state-of-the-art advancement of this process were firstly reviewed. Then some key issues on the reactor design

involving high-efficient gas-solids mixing

coking control and reactor optimization and scale-up were discussed in detail. Furthermore

the process was investigated systematically based on the analyses of materials balance

energy balance and the economic assessment. It is concluded that the optimal utilization of energy and materials flows in the system is of great significance to ensure the economic feasibility.