Worldwide Natural Resources Plc

Technology

OUR TECHNOLOGY RIGHTS - THE HEAP PROCESS

The High Efficiency Advanced Pelletizing (HEAP) Process converts arising and/or existing in situ coal fines into high quality coal pellets.

These pellets can be viewed and used as normal coal. The property of the additives used to make the pellets brings the added benefit of dehydration, significantly reducing the original moisture content (typically 12% down to 6%), which, in turn has the effect of elevating the calorific values (CV) of the fines.

Increasing the CV (the heating value of coal) and providing a particle shape that closely resembles a sphere is highly beneficial when viewed as a energy source. The combustion is more stable, thorough and efficient, ultimately giving rise to a reduced requirement for coal.

OTHER ADVANTAGES

HEAP technology is simple in concept and delivery, requiring only standard industrial machinery for its operation.

It does not present any construction and operational difficulties since the process is readily scalable and can be fully automated.

The proprietary element of the process concerns determining the precise quantity of reagents needed to provide sufficient and correct binding material to produce the final product. The result is a hard-cased ultra dry spherical particle with an elevated CV amenable to handling, storage and transportation.

The very low moisture level is achieved without thermal drying, making the process much more efficient and cost-effective than traditional methods. The pellets are spherical, about one inch in diameter, with the large surface area aiding the natural drying process. 

The pellets can withstand prolonged submersion in water, and also prolonged leach flows of strong alkaline or acidic solutions. This is an extremely important aspect, especially in light of the recent floodings in Australia which caused international coal prices to rise significantly. 

substantial FINANCIAL BENEFITS TO POWER GENERATING COMPANIES

• Power stations can expect to achieve fuel cost savings of 15% - 20% through the use of HEAP pellets.
• Clean and stable burning
• homogenous spherical particles provide good stacking characteristics and promote good gas flow between particles.
• No sticking or chute blocking because of the low moisture content and free running nature of the product.
• Good pulverisation and flame characteristics. 
• The spherical form and hard shell also produce more efficient gas and heat transfer properties, allowing very fine control of the combustion process while also creating stable and consistent energy levels.
• The ability to create a custom fuel which can be used to claim carbon credits 

OUR NEXT STEPS

The company is in the process of securing coal fines deposits for its development plan. The board has arranged for tests to further develop the technology and to highlight the potential in the power generation field.

SOUTH AFRICA

WNR chose to operate within South Africa as a strategically strong location for the implementation of the HEAP process. Being the world’s third largest coal exporter and in light of the country’s insufficient electrical power generation, South Africa is well placed to serve as a base for its operations. In terms of sovereign risk, the board, like the majority of major research analysts, is confident in South Africa’s stability in the short to medium term future.

FUTURE APPLICATION

The company hopes also to develop its technology rights into other products, particularly ferro-manganese and the treatment of ash waste from the power generating companies themselves. Indeed, the technology has application not just in South Africa but internationally, and WNR may expand into other countries with similar environmental concerns.