Modification of ash fusion behavior of coal with high ash fusion temperature by red mud addition

The influences of two red mud (RM) samples (ZZ and ZM) on fusion behaviors of three high ash fusion temperature (AFT) coals (FZ, JC and JZ) were investigated. It was evaluated by determining AFTs of coals, RMs, and the mixtures of coal ash with RM, as well as their compositions of ashes and mineral. The results showed that the contents of CaO, Fe2O3, and Na2O in RMs were higher than those in coal ashes, which caused RMs' AFTs lower than those of coals. The formation of high melting-point mullite might be the main factor causing coal AFTs higher. With the increase in RM mass ratio, the increasing amount of low-melting eutectic (anorthite (CaAl2Si2O8), fayalite (Fe2SiO4), and anorthite (Na-rich) (Ca,Na)(Si,Al)4O8)) and amorphous matter made AFTs lower. ZZ reduced AFTs obviously than ZM because the content of Na2O in ZZ was higher than that in ZM. Owing to lower ion potential of Na+ than those of Ca2+ and Fe2+, Na+ is easier to enter into the lattice of mullite and results in the reduction of AFTs.