Quality Evaluation of Udane–Biomi Coal in the Northern Anambra Basin of Nigeria

Abstract

Felix Bamidele Fatoye* and Michael Adewale Ibitomi

Coal is a significant fuel for several industrial operations, however, its scope of application depends on some quality parameters. In this study, a geochemical investigation of Udane–Biomi (in Northern Anambra Basin) coal deposit has been carried out to ascertain its potential relevance to possible industrial applications. Results from the proximate analysis indicated that the average composition of the coal includes 4.49 % moisture, 76.06 % ash, 11.76 % volatile matter and 7.69 % fixed carbon. The ultimate analysis also reveals that coal consists of 10.58 % carbon, 1.66 % hydrogen, 0.29 % nitrogen, 6.82 % oxygen, 0.12 % sulphur and 0.02 % phosphorus. The average heating value of the coal is 1891Btu/1b and a free swelling index of 0.0 (zero). This observed composition of the investigated coal contradicts with data expected for cooking coals. However, coal is appropriate for electricity generation, heating boilers and ovens in industrial process heating. Coal can also be useful in the cement, glass, ceramic, paper and brick industries.