Mineralogy and geochemistry of feed coals and combustion residues of the Kangal power plant (Sivas, Turkey).

This study focuses on mineralogical and geochemical compositions of feed coal (FC) and combustion residues, namely fly ash (FA) and bottom ash (BA) samples, obtained from the Kangal coal-fired power plant in central Turkey. The X-ray powder diffraction data indicate that carbonate and clay minerals are dominant phases in the FC samples. In the FA samples, quartz, hematite, anhydrite, lime, and feldspar are generally dominant and abundant phases, whereas calcite, ettringite, and portlandite are generally more abundant in the BA samples. The elements Mo, Cs, and U are significantly enriched in the studied FC, FA, and BA samples. The statistical analysis and SEM-EDX data show that Ca, Ti, and the vast majority of trace elements are inorganically affiliated, and only Tl and U have probable organic affinity in the FC. In addition, the redox conditions in the paleomires presumably resulting in Mo and U enrichment in FC, whereas their enrichment in FA and BA is most likely related to retention by CaO and Ca-sulfate. The Cs enrichment in FA is due to retention by glass. The elements in the FA and BA are distinguished into four groups according to their volatility during combustion. The elements As, Mo, Cd, Tl, and U (Group I) are the most volatile elements during combustion and condensation in the FA. The elements Li, Zn, Ga, Rb, Nb, Cs, Ba, La, and Pb (Group IV) did not become more volatile or less volatile during combustion and are located in BA. Nevertheless, Zn and Pb in the BA seem to be related to the presence of unaffected pyrite and sphalerite, and are due to low combustion efficiency of the boiler during the sampling period. Overall, enriched elements and minerals in FA and BA suggest that their disposal should be undertaken with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]