Elemental analysis of coal and coal ASH by PIXE technique

Coal and coal ash samples were characterized by particle induced X-ray emission spectroscopic technique. Sixteen elements, namely K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Rb, Sr, Y and Pb were quantified in this study. Elements like K, Ca, Ti and Fe were present as major elements, whereas, other elements like V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Rb, Sr and Pb were present in trace level. The enrichment ratio of different ash samples with respect to coal were also estimated and discussed.

► Elemental analysis of coal and coal ash including pond ash is the first of its kind.
► The enrichment ratio has been exclusively explained in the study.
► Non-destructive PIXE analysis has been employed in this study and both major and trace elements has been estimated.