Strong interest in the use of coal-derived syngas in gas turbines has led to recent experimental studies that highlight the important features of H-2/CO combustion at high pressures and relatively low temperatures. In the present study these investigations are reviewed, evaluated, and chemical kinetic updates based on these new results are discussed. Disparities observed between experimental measurements and kinetic model predictions of high pressure ignition delay and burning velocity are noted and the effect that surfaces, trace impurities, and contaminants may have on the H-2/CO kinetic system are elucidated. In particular, the impurity coupling with NOx is discussed in relation to energy conversion processes involving hydrogen as a fuel component. An example of its importance to pre-ignition in reciprocating engine applications is also demonstrated.