Quantitative Study of Trace Elements in Coal and Coal Related Ashes using PIXE

Trace element analysis of feed coal, fly ash and bottom ash samples acquired from NTPC, Visakhapatnam was done by Particle Induced X-ray emission (PIXE) method. Sixteen inorganic elements K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Rb, Sr, and Pb were quantified. The enrichment and partition ratios were determined to understand the distribution and behavior of trace elements in coal and its residues. Enrichment factor for trace elements in ashes with respect to the concentration of Fe normalized relative to the earth’s continental crustal values was calculated to understand the effect of these elements on the environment. It was expected that the results of the present study may be useful in determining the coal combustion residue recovery potential and also help in reducing their potential impact on eco systems.