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Published on: November 28, 2014
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Characterization, partitioning, and potential ecological risk quantification of trace elements in coal fly ash
1Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Centre of Mining Environment, Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, 826004, India.
Summary
Indian coal fly ash (FA) contains enriched trace metals like lead and mercury. Environmental risk assessment shows moderate ecological risk from one plant and low risk from others, indicating potential for safe management.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geochemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Coal-based thermal power plants are India's primary energy source.
- Combustion generates substantial quantities of fly ash (FA), a significant byproduct.
- Understanding FA's composition and environmental impact is crucial for sustainable energy practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the physico-chemical and mineralogical properties of FA from Indian thermal power plants (TPPs).
- To evaluate the environmental risk posed by trace elements in FA using geoaccumulation and ecological risk indices.
- To analyze the enrichment and partitioning behavior of trace elements in FA compared to coal and bottom ash (BA).
Main Methods:
- Physico-chemical and mineralogical analysis of coal, FA, and BA.
- Trace element analysis to determine enrichment and partitioning.
- Environmental risk assessment using geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and potential ecological risk index (PERI).
Main Results:
- FA is rich in SiO2, Al2O3, and Fe2O3, with identified minerals including quartz, mullite, hematite, and magnetite.
- Trace metals (Cr, Pb, Hg, As) are significantly enriched in FA compared to coal and BA.
- Lead (Pb) showed the highest enrichment ratio (ER), and mercury (Hg) had the highest partition ratio (PR).
- PERI values indicated moderate environmental risk from TPP4 FA and low risk from other TPPs' FA.
Conclusions:
- FA composition is dominated by major oxides and specific mineral phases.
- Trace element enrichment in FA poses varying levels of environmental risk, with TPP4 FA presenting a moderate concern.
- The study provides critical data for managing FA and mitigating environmental risks associated with coal-fired power generation.
