The approach of biodesulfurization for clean coal technologies: a review

Coal continues to be a significant source of energy in the world. It is very important to utilize this energy source as much as possible, to operate unutilized loss reserves due to its characteristics. In this context, the necessity to continue studying on clean coal technologies was emphasized in terms of sustainability in energy production and its use, safety and environmental issues. Since approximately 50% of total coal deposits of the world are low rank, it is required to clean them by implementing different and efficient technologies to improve the utilization of low-rank coals. This review summarized the importance of clean coal technology, biological treatments until now, recent advances and future trends in coal biobeneficiation technologies as energy-conserving and environmentally friendly processes. Finally, in light of the data obtained from all studies, the basic steps for the possible use of biocleaning methods in industrial scale are also summarized in this review.