Highly efficient coke dust suppressant with anti-freezing capabilities

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Stockpiled coke is susceptible to wind erosion, causing economic losses and environmental pollution.
• Existing polysaccharide dust suppressants have limitations in wettability, coverage, and performance in extreme weather, often requiring additives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an effective and robust dust suppressant for stockpiled coke.
• To overcome the limitations of current dust control methods for coke.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of a novel dust suppressant using polyethyleneimine (PEI), starch, and glycerol.
• Evaluation of suppressant properties including wettability, film formation, water retention, and freezing point depression.
• Assessment of performance through wind erosion tests and bomb calorimeter analysis.

Main Results:

• The PEI-starch-glycerol suppressant demonstrated enhanced coke wettability and aggregation through electrostatic interactions.
• A stable film with improved water retention was formed via PEI-starch hydrogen bonding.
• Glycerol addition lowered the freezing point to -13°C, preventing freezing-related losses.
• Wind erosion tests confirmed superior wind resistance without compromising coke combustion.

Conclusions:

• The developed coke dust suppressant offers an effective solution for controlling wind-blown emissions.
• The formulation provides enhanced performance in extreme weather conditions and maintains coke quality.
• This innovation addresses environmental concerns and economic losses associated with coke stockpiling.