Coal Structure Evaluation and Morphological Properties That Affect the Coal Usage in Industries.

Abstract

The contemporary research article is central to understanding coal structure evaluation and the morphological development impacting its utilization in different applications. Through Mineral Liberation Analysis (MLA) designs high content phyllosilicates minerals and swelling clay minerals were rationalized to provides a novel insight into enhanced coal beneficiation and the benefits of coal by-product re-utilization progressions that encourage safer environments and economic sustainability. This work commences with collection of five (5) different coal samples from the central district mine in Botswana and chemical characterization via Thermogravimetric coal analysis, x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and the Hardgrove Grindability Index testing that quantify coal material hardness and fracture toughness. The results showed sulfur and phosphorus inclusions in all samples complemented through sphalerite mineral phases (Zn, Fe)S and the coal morphology stimulated the material fracture toughness and hardness properties by influential mineral amalgams intrinsic to the Botswana central district coal maceral such as aluminum oxides (Al2O3), silicate (SiO2), calcites (CaO), Iron oxide (Fe2O3), potassium feldspars (K−AlSi3O8), albite (Na−AlSi3O8), and anorthite (Ca−Al2Si2O8) compounds in alkali feldspars which are predominantly group I and II carriers were perceived in substantial quantities. The coal industry has attracted much industrial attention by supply of high energy potent coal material and coal-by products to manufacturing foundations producing cement, ceramic tiles, paving bricks and material synthesis and will continue to supply other economic sectors in the conceivable future. Nevertheless, environmental concerns consequential to coal beneficiation are pressing issues requiring transdisciplinary innovations through investigations and technological practices that encourage the elimination of toxins and hazardous compounds from coal products therefore holistically generating sustainable and renewable resource for the future.