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MINERAL MATTER IN COAL
As well as organic matter coals also contain a small but significant proportion of minerals and other inorganic contaminants, collectively referred to as mineral matter. Some of these materials may be removed during coal preparation, but a certain amount is intimately associated with the organic components and becomes involved in various ways when the coal is finally used.
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Coal research within the School includes several studies aimed at improving our understanding of this mineral matter, based on a variety of different investigation techniques. Minerals isolated from the coal by low temperature oxygen-plasma ashing are studied by instrumental methods such as X-ray diffraction, while major and trace elements in the coals are measured by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry techniques. Working in collaboration with the CSIRO the UNSW team has also investigated the application of scanning electron microscopy to mineral matter studies, and the application of techniques for quantitative evaluation of the minerals in coal using sophisticated processing of X-ray diffraction and chemical data.
X-ray diffraction
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Particular emphasis at UNSW has been on studies of the clay minerals in coal and the processes that form them, as well as the role of clays, along with quartz, pyrite and other minerals, in different aspects of coal mining and use. Other mineral matter projects include collaborative work with Pacific Power aimed at assisting the development of coal-seam methane resources.
Plasma ashes
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APPLICATIONS OF THE STUDY INCLUDE:
- Improving coal analysis and characterisation methods;
- Evaluating and mapping different coal quality parameters;
- Developing on-line and down-hole analysis methods;
- Optimising and integrating of coal preparation processes;
- Evaluating coal handling and abrasion properties;
- Monitoring coal ash formation and behaviour in utilisation;
- Identifying source and mobility of significant trace elements;
- Improving coal marketability through better product knowledge.
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