ABSTRACT
A strong interplay among processes occurring in different zones needs to be adequately represented in computational models. This chapter provides a brief discussion on the role of the important phenomena in the development of computational models for underground coal gasification (UCG). It discusses reaction thermodynamics in the context of UCG modeling. The chapter explains various issues relevant for developing computational models of UCG. Permeability of rubble at different locations depends on the spalling variability, which in turn depends on the coal seam as well as the flow patterns. While developing the multizonal models, one should carefully include the interactions between difference zones heat and mass transport, spalling behavior, and flow patterns. In addition to the modeling approach, it is also important to understand the role of different phenomena and factors in the UCG process. That includes reaction and thermodynamics, nonideal flow patterns, heat and mass transport, and spalling.
