Laser Applications of Vibrational Spectroscopy to Mineral and Coal Processing

Abstract

The spectroscopic analysis of mineral and coal samples from various process operations has received much attention worldwide. Our research group is presently using four vibrational spectroscopic techniques for the in-situ characterization of these samples and their surfaces. These techniques involve Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), Fourier-transform Raman (FT- Raman), low-intensity Raman (LIRS), and scanning fluorescence (SFS) spectroscopies, each of which incorporate lasers for interferometry and/or sample excitation purposes. The fundamentals behind each of these techniques are reviewed, thereby demonstrating why lasers are necessary. Finally, experimental results are presented which describe the surface chemistry of coal/resin flotation systems and the adsorption phenomena/double-bond reactivity of unsaturated fatty acids at semisoluble salt mineral surfaces.