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Updated: May 26, 2026
06:51
Quantitative Analysis by Thermogravimetry-Mass Spectrum Analysis for Reactions with Evolved Gases
Published on: October 29, 2018
Elemental analysis of coal and coal ASH by PIXE technique
K C Patra1, Tapash R Rautray, B B Tripathy
1Department of Physics, Sambalpur University, Jyoti Vihar, Burla, India.
Summary
This study quantified sixteen elements in coal and coal ash using particle-induced X-ray emission spectroscopy. Major elements like potassium and iron were identified, alongside trace elements such as arsenic and lead, revealing their distribution in combustion byproducts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Geochemistry
Background:
- Coal combustion generates coal ash, a byproduct containing various elements.
- Understanding the elemental composition of coal and its ash is crucial for environmental and health impact assessments.
- Previous studies have analyzed coal ash, but detailed elemental quantification using advanced techniques is ongoing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the elemental composition of coal and coal ash samples.
- To quantify major and trace elements using particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) spectroscopy.
- To assess the enrichment of elements in coal ash relative to the parent coal.
Main Methods:
- Samples of coal and coal ash were analyzed using particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) spectroscopy.
- Quantitative analysis was performed to determine the concentration of sixteen specific elements.
- Enrichment ratios were calculated by comparing elemental concentrations in ash to those in coal.
Main Results:
- Sixteen elements (K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Rb, Sr, Y, Pb) were quantified.
- Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Titanium (Ti), and Iron (Fe) were identified as major elements.
- Trace elements including Vanadium (V), Arsenic (As), and Lead (Pb) were also detected and quantified.
Conclusions:
- PIXE spectroscopy is effective for quantifying elements in coal and coal ash.
- The study provides a detailed elemental profile of the analyzed coal and ash samples.
- Understanding elemental enrichment in ash is important for managing combustion byproducts and potential environmental risks.
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