Vitrinite Upgrading and Phosphorus Removal For Teck Coals

Abstract

The efficiency of gravity based separation and froth flotation techniques on vitrinite macerals upgrading and ash removal for two bituminous coals (Fording River and Coal Mountain Operation) has been investigated. Efficiency of these techniques for phosphorus removal for Fording River sample has also been evaluated. Density-based separation of Fording River sample revealed that highest vitrinite recovery can be achieved for < 425 µm size and < 1.45 g.cm-3 density and phosphorus is more concentrated in heavier densities. Using Air dense medium fluidized bed, clean coal with low ash and phosphorus content has been achieved for both samples. Vitrinite upgrading in clean coal was achieved for > 2.36 mm particle size of Fording River and entire particle size range for Coal Mountain Operation sample. Using Denver cell, the effects of flotation kinetics and change in the pulp pH on the vitrinite upgrading in clean froth for both coals have been determined.