Enhanced desulfurizing flotation of different size fractions of high sulfur coal using sonoelectrochemical method

Enhanced desulfurizing flotation of different size fractions of high sulfur coal was investigated using the sonoelectrochemical method. The supporting electrolyte used in this process was calcium hydroxide and the additive was anhydrous ethanol. The effects of treatment conditions on desulfurization were studied by a single-factor method. The conditions include anhydrous ethanol concentration, sonoelectrolytic time, current density, and ultrasound intensity. For the coal samples with different size fractions, the optimal experimental conditions for anhydrous ethanol concentration, sonoelectrolytic time, current density, and ultrasound intensity, respectively, are achieved. Under optimal conditions, the raw and treated coals were analyzed by infrared spectroscopy and a chemical method. Pyritic sulfur, organic sulfur, and ash are partially removed. Compared with different size fractions coal, desulfurizing flotation of high sulfur coal by sonoelectrochemistry is an effective technology.

► Desulfurizing flotation of different size fractions of high sulfur coal by sonoelectrochemistry. ► The electrolyte was sodium chloride and the additive was anhydrous ethanol. ► Part of pyritic and organic sulfurs as well as ash are removed. ► The highest rate of sulfur reduction is 82.7% for 0.076–0.125 mm coal. ► The method is effective in calorific value increment and moisture reduction.