Study on Quality and Elemental Composition of Gazestan Coal Mine, Takhar Province, Afghanistan

Abstract

Coal is one of the world's main energy resources and has an important role in electricity generation and industrial activities. The chemical and elemental properties of coal are of great importance to its quality and potential uses.  In this study, the quality indices and elemental analysis of coal from the Gazestan coal mine in Takhar province in Afghanistan were performed. At approximately 120, 160 and 200 m from the mine entrance, three coal samples were collected at different positions in the coal seam along the second mining gallery. The elemental composition was determined by the XRF analysis and the coal quality indices were evaluated using thermal treatment experiments. The results showed that the sulfur concentrations were in the range of 263-872 ppm with the highest concentration in sample GZ-1. Sample GZ-3 had a calcium concentration of 8.68%, which was much higher than that in other samples. Ash content was found to be between 29.77% and 69.90% whereas volatile matter was found to be between 30.06% and 70.22%. The maximum ash content was observed in sample GZ-2 and the minimum in GZ-3. The results also showed that with the increase in the depth of mining there was a decrease in ash yield and sulfur concentration, along with an increase in calcium content. Such changes can reduce the environmental impacts associated with burning coal. The coal from estimated depth of 200 m was classified as bituminous coal based on quality indices obtained and can be suitable for industrial applications especially in cement manufacturing.