Methodology for the characterization of anthracite refuse

Technical Report · Thu Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1971

OSTI ID:5258112

Augenstein, D; Sun, S C

This study deals with the development of methodology for the characterization of anthracite refuse by utilization of the low temperature asher. Seven refuse samples obtained from all four of the Pennsylvania anthracite fields were used in the formulation and verification of the methodology developed. This study was urgently needed for a more sound evaluation of current and future disposal and utilization proposals. The methodology developed consists of several distinct steps. Physical properties of the refuse are determined by screen and washability analyses. Compositional properties are determined by standard high temperature ashing, chemical analyses, low temperature ashing, x-ray diffraction, and mathematical calculation of mineral percentages from chemical analyses and standard chemical formulas of the minerals identified in the sample. The physical and compositional characteristics of the seven refuse samples investigated were all very similar. The anthracite refuse samples studied contained an average of 75% mineral matter and 68% ash. Minerals identified in the samples include: kaolinite, illite, quartz, pyrophyllite, rutile, and pyrite. Shale and sandstone comprised approximately 95% of the refuse samples' mineral matter. From the analyses obtained, it appears that the attempted recovery of values from the refuse material such as coal, alumina, silica, clay, or titanium (with the exception of coal from high carbon banks) would be undesirable at the present time due to the excessive costs involved in such a process.

• Research Organization: Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park (USA). Dept. of Mineral Preparation
• OSTI ID: 5258112
• Report Number(s): SR-86
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT
010800* -- Coal
Lignite
& Peat-- Waste Management
ANTHRACITE
CARBONACEOUS MATERIALS
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
COAL
COAL MINING
ENERGY SOURCES
FEASIBILITY STUDIES
FOSSIL FUELS
FUELS
MINERAL WASTES
MINING
NORTH AMERICA
PENNSYLVANIA
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
SAMPLING
SOLID WASTES
USA
WASTES