A δP Technique for the Prediction and Monitoring of Coal Oxidation

Abstract

Laboratory simulation of Ihe oxidation process was carried oul in order to study the effect of oxidation on coal properties important in beneficiation and utilization. Naturally weathered samples were also studied and compared to those oxidized under controlled conditions in the laboratory. The chemical changes which take place during oxidation, either in the laboratory or in the field, were monitored by measuring the rate and amount of gas desorption from the coal sample (the δP technique).

Results obtained on a δP instrument are compared with those obtained via standard coal analysis and photo acoustic FTIR spectroscopy. Full scale coking tests were also done on some of the naturally weathered coal for verification of the utility of the technique.

Monitoring the oxidation and weathering of stockpiled western Canadian bituminous coals, either run of mine or product, is possible with this equipment and indications are thai it could be applied to other coals as well. Preliminary results indicate that it will also be useful for predicting the weathering propensity of a coal before it is stockpiled.